Kisumu County officials, together with national representatives, have called for increased vigilance against alcohol and drug abuse during the festive season. Speaking during an anti-drug forum at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Sports Ground on Thursday, December 19, County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo underscored the urgency of addressing substance abuse.
“We are here to educate leaders and the public on the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. This is not just a health issue—it has escalated into a serious national security concern,” Leparmorijo stated.
He highlighted enforcement efforts, including raids on illicit brew dens and bars violating the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, which mandates operating hours between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. Leparmorijo also urged Kenyans to drink responsibly during the holidays.
“Do not overindulge; it’s about safeguarding your health and life,” he added.
Nationwide Efforts to Combat Substance Abuse
Dr. Andrew Toro, head of drug and substance abuse at the Ministry of Health, detailed the ministry’s six-day campaign across six counties: Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, and Nyamira.
“We’ve sensitized stakeholders, including judiciary, religious groups, women, and youth, on the harmful effects of drugs. Yesterday, we trained 170 healthcare workers, equipping them with the knowledge to handle substance abuse cases effectively,” Dr. Toro said.
He reiterated the ministry’s commitment to tackling the issue nationwide. “This menace is causing non-communicable diseases, road accidents, and mental health challenges. We are ensuring every citizen is informed,” he said.
Local Interventions in Kisumu
Fredrick Oluoch, Kisumu County’s Director of Public Health and Sanitation, highlighted collaborative efforts to reduce drug prevalence among youth, which currently stands at 11.4%.
“We’ve partnered with the national government, NACADA, and other agencies to establish rehabilitation centers at Migosi Hospital and Kisumu County Referral Hospital, with plans to create more facilities,” Oluoch explained.
Advocacy and Awareness
Dr. Efantus Maree, a NACADA board member, emphasized the role of families in combating substance abuse. “This is a societal issue. Parents must have open conversations with their children, especially during this festive season when exposure to substance abuse is high,” he said.
Rodgers Muremi from the Tobacco Control Board warned of emerging nicotine products, such as electronic devices disguised as flash drives.
“Our role is to regulate these products and, where necessary, remove them from the market,” he noted.
Youth advocate Elvina Majiwa urged stricter enforcement of tobacco laws. “We call on NACADA to strengthen regulations and restrict the sale of these harmful products, especially to children as young as six,” she appealed.
Unified Call to Action
The forum highlighted the need for a collective effort among government agencies, healthcare workers, and the public to combat substance abuse, aiming to safeguard health and ensure a safer festive season.
