Rachuonyo: The government has intensified the crackdown on illicit brew, drugs, and substance abuse in Rachuonyo Sub-County to ensure the youth are not lured into the habit. Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Rachuonyo South Sub-County Silvester Mwangulu said the move was necessary after it emerged that drug and alcohol abuse disrupts law and order, threatening public safety.
According to Kenya News Agency, the commissioner emphasized the consequences of continuing indulgence in alcohol and drug abuse, stating that public safety and national security would be highly compromised. He urged leaders to take decisive action to combat this menace. Speaking during the launch of National Substance Use Prevention Week in Oyugis town, Mwangulu assured that the government is committed to protecting the youth by engaging them in meaningful economic activities.
The DCC revealed that comprehensive mapping has been done in all locations, identifying brewers’ dens, unlicensed outlets, and those selling counterfeit products. He stated that intelligence reports have guided the intensified crackdown, leading to several arrests and the impounding of illicit brew, bhang, and counterfeit goods. The crackdown also targets counterfeit products, which significantly impact the economy by forcing genuine businesses that pay taxes to close down.
Monica Akumu, Homabay County Coordinator for the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada), highlighted that National Substance Use Week aims to reach individuals affected by alcoholism and drug abuse to sensitize them and curb these challenges. Nacada’s primary goal is prevention, as it is more effective than waiting until individuals require rehabilitation.
Echoing the event’s theme, ‘Empowered communities, brighter futures,’ Akumu emphasized the focus on children and youth, who are most affected by alcohol and drug use. The week also celebrates survivors who have successfully rehabilitated. The coordinator stressed the importance of parental involvement and community action to ensure children are not drawn into drug abuse, as the future generation relies on it.
She further explained that drugs and alcohol affect the country’s economic progress, as many affected youth and individuals cannot engage meaningfully in economic activities to sustain their livelihoods.
