The National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has engaged religious leaders in West Pokot County to strengthen the fight against alcohol and drug abuse.
The meeting emphasised the critical role of faith-based institutions in guiding communities, supporting vulnerable individuals, and influencing positive behaviour.
Speaking at the forum, Ms Scola Komen, NACADA County Coordinator for West Pokot and Turkana, emphasised the importance of engaging religious leaders in the prevention and management of alcohol and drug abuse.
She noted that faith-based institutions play a critical role in shaping values, guiding families, and supporting vulnerable individuals.
Ms Komen highlighted that through church structures, clergy can reach large audiences, sharing messages of hope and recovery for individuals struggling with substance use disorders, helping them reintegrate into society.
She said the forum provided an opportunity for clergy to commit to sensitising their congregations, guiding communities, and keeping people away from the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse.
She stressed that youth and society at large have been greatly affected by substance use, and clergy have been requested not only to offer hope but also to affirm NACADA’s presence in West Pokot.
Ms Komen reiterated NACADA’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the Church, especially during festive seasons, to support young people in breaking free from harmful habits.
She concluded by noting that the collaboration with clergy is highly beneficial and that NACADA looks forward to continued engagement with pastors and churches across west Pokot to expand prevention programmes, strengthen rehabilitation efforts, and promote a safer, healthier, and drug-free society.
Bishop David Kaseton, Chairman of the AIC (African inland Church) Pokot Area Church Council. Emphasised the critical role of faith leaders in addressing alcohol and drug abuse in West Pokot.
During the forum, clergy had the opportunity to hear powerful testimonies revealing the deep struggle faced by individuals and communities affected by substance abuse, particularly among youth.
Bishop Kaseton noted that the forum reminded clergy of their responsibility to guide, mentor, pray for, and support those affected.
He expressed gratitude to NACADA for creating a platform where religious leaders can share their vision and actively contribute to the fight against illicit drugs, a challenge with significant national impact if ignored.
The bishop stressed that the church, through its moral influence and community presence, remains a vital partner in prevention and rehabilitation efforts.
Bishop Kaseton urged faith leaders to remain vigilant, offer compassion and guidance, and actively walk alongside individuals on their journey to recovery.
He also highlighted the importance of supporting public and private rehabilitation centers to transform lives affected by substance abuse.
Reverend Moses Makilap of Africa Gospel Church (AGC) highlighted the importance of NACADA’S engagement with religious leaders in strengthening collaboration and coordination in the fight against illicit drugs and substance abuse.
He noted that the forum provided an opportunity for clergy to gain valuable insights on the effects of drug use and the critical role faith-based institutions can play in prevention.
Reverend Makilap expressed gratitude for the partnership and guidance, emphasising that parents must remain vigilant, especially during school holidays when young people are most at risk.
He urged parents to actively know their children’s whereabouts, peers, and activities and to guide and support them at home.
“We are grateful to NACADA for the valuable and uplifting guidance on the need for faith-based institutions to contribute actively in the fight against drugs and substance abuse,” he stressed.
He stressed that when the church and families work together, they can protect children, prevent harmful behaviour, and foster a safer community.
NACADA pledged continued collaboration with religious institutions to promote prevention, awareness, and rehabilitation efforts for a healthier, drug-free society.
By Anthony Melly
