Marsabit: The government has heightened the war against drug and substance abuse in Marsabit County. County Commissioner James Kamau stated that stringent measures to stop the infiltration and sale of illegal merchandise have been set up, warning those determined to indulge in such practices of dire consequences.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mr. Kamau, speaking at his office during the flagging off of an anti-drug and substance abuse awareness campaign caravan organized by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA), called for support from residents to end the vice. Accompanied by the county security team, the commissioner noted that proactive security agencies have been effective in countering drug peddlers and their evolving trafficking methods.
He urged youths to avoid engaging in outlawed practices and encouraged those out of school to seek financial grants from government-established entities like Uwezo, Hustler Fund, and Youth Enterprise Fund to start income-generating activities for a transformative future. The five-day sensitization campaign will cover Marsabit Central, Turbi, Sololo, and Moyale sub-counties, aiming to equip communities with knowledge and resources to combat addiction.
Mr. Kamau acknowledged the challenge posed by Marsabit County's border with Ethiopia, a bhang-producing country, which facilitates the smuggling of drugs. Despite the porous border, he assured residents and the nation that security agencies and stakeholders are committed to winning the war against drugs and other substances. He advised responsible alcohol consumption and urged people to consume only certified drinks.
NACADA Marsabit County coordinator Mohamed Wako expressed concern about the growing drug and substance abuse, particularly of bhang and miraa among the youth. He revealed that NACADA is collaborating with national government administrative organs to create awareness and stop peddlers. Wako highlighted the issue of drug influence creeping into schools, targeting both secondary and primary students.
To counter this, NACADA plans to implement an elaborate program in regional learning institutions to educate students on the dangers of drug and substance abuse. Wako pointed out that the affordability of drugs like miraa and bhang, sold at low prices, contributes to their prevalence among young people. He urged the community to report peddlers to authorities to facilitate action against them.
Wako emphasized the role of peer influence in drug use among youths, advocating for the campaign to empower them to make independent choices rather than succumb to peer pressure. He also acknowledged successes in eradicating illicit and adulterated liquor, commending law enforcement for their role in curtailing the illegal trade, which he described as a significant victory in the fight against the vice.