National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) in Vihiga County have been directed to intensify the fight against illicit brew and drug abuse to protect the lives and future of Kenyans.
Speaking at Kaimosi Friends University during a sensitization meeting on the revised policy for issuing national identity cards, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei urged NGAO officers to employ all available strategies to eliminate the production, transportation, distribution, and sale of illicit alcohol and narcotic drugs.
Koskei said the widespread abuse of illicit brew and drugs continues to destroy families, derail the aspirations of young people, and undermine national development. He called on officers to remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and disrupting criminal networks involved in the illegal trade.
He directed assistant chiefs, chiefs, Assistant County Commissioners and Deputy County Commissioners across Vihiga County to work closely with law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to eradicate the vice.
The Head of Public Service also expressed concern over the increasing cultivation, transportation, and sale of bhang, particularly in Luanda and Emuhaya sub-counties, saying the illegal trade was exposing many young people to drug addiction and other social challenges. He urged NGAO officers to strengthen surveillance and enforcement measures to curb the menace.
Koskei further reminded officers to uphold the public service code of conduct by demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and accountability in the discharge of their duties. He said public officers should lead by example and earn the trust of the communities they serve.
He also cautioned officers against spreading or acting on unverified information regarding government programmes and projects, urging them to verify facts before sharing information, especially on social media platforms.
Koskei challenged the officers to live within their means, warning that maintaining lifestyles beyond their financial capacity often leads to unnecessary borrowing, financial distress, and poor decision-making, which can compromise effective public service delivery.
By Maureen Imbayi
