Nairobi: A multi-agency team comprising security agencies and various government departments has declared war on illicit drugs, brews, and counterfeit alcohol in Marsabit County. The initiative forms part of a 100-day operation aimed at dismantling illegal trade and protecting residents, especially the youth, from the threats posed by substance abuse.
According to Kenya News Agency, the team, which includes the County Security Committee, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), the County government, the Government Chemist, public health officials, and other agencies, is set to target the entire supply chain of illicit drugs and alcohol. This includes producers, processors, traffickers, distributors, and dealers.
The operation, launched under the Rapid Result Initiative (RRI) in Marsabit town, warns those involved in illegal production, transportation, and sale of drugs and alcohol that they will face stringent legal action. Marsabit County Commissioner, Stanley Kaman
de, emphasized the initiative’s focus on combating chang’aa, cannabis, counterfeit alcohol, and other illicit substances across the County.
Authorities have pinpointed areas where illicit brews, particularly chang’aa, continue to be produced despite previous enforcement efforts. The operation also plans to target bars and businesses selling alcohol without the necessary licenses or verification from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
Mr. Kamande highlighted the operation’s aim to remove counterfeit alcohol from retail outlets and tackle the trafficking and sale of cannabis within the County. He stressed the importance of a coordinated effort among government agencies to achieve lasting outcomes, noting the multi-agency approach as a key differentiator from past initiatives.
NACADA Marsabit County Coordinator, Mohamed Wako, asserted that the campaign would span the entire County to prevent drug dealers and illicit brewers from relocating their activities. He emphasized the operation’s goal of safeguardin
g young people from the damaging effects of substance abuse.
While a County-specific survey on drug and substance abuse has yet to be conducted, plans are in place to carry one out to better understand the drug use patterns and necessary interventions. The campaign will also examine the use of Miraa and over-the-counter prescription medicine to address the broader substance abuse issue.
Representing the County Government, Chief of Staff Abdo Alla reaffirmed the County Administration’s commitment to supporting the initiative, emphasizing the societal impact of drug and substance abuse. He called for community cooperation with security agencies to help identify those involved in the illicit trade.
Authorities aim not only to arrest offenders but also to disrupt the production and distribution networks sustaining the illegal drug and alcohol trade. The multi-agency team plans to sustain the operation over the 100-day period and evaluate its impact, maintaining that continued collaboration will be necessary be
yond the RRI period to effectively combat illicit drugs and alcohol.
