By Elizabeth Mwibanda, Bungoma
The National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has launched a three-day anti-drug abuse campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of addiction during the festive season. This initiative comes as concerns rise over the high rates of traditional liquor production and consumption in Kenya’s Western region, with recent statistics showing it leads the country in illicit brew-related activities.
A NACADA survey revealed that the Western region, including Bungoma County, has the highest prevalence of drug and substance abuse, with 26.4 per cent of the population reporting current use of at least one substance. This is followed by Eastern Kenya at 20.7 per cent and Nairobi at 19.1 per cent.
During the campaign’s launch at the Bungoma County Commissioner’s Office on Thursday, Eunice Arubia, NACADA’s regional coordinator, emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about substance abuse during the busy festive season.
The campaign, in partnership with the county commissioner’s office and Bungoma County government, seeks to discourage over-indulgence and promote safe, responsible behavior during the holidays.
“It’s alarming to see that Bungoma is at the forefront of both producing and consuming illicit brew,” ~ arubia
“We are urging the public to celebrate responsibly this festive season. This is a time when many people travel, and we are specifically calling on drivers and road users to refrain from alcohol or drug use while carrying passengers,” Arubia stated. “We want to ensure that no lives are endangered during this period of celebration and travel.”
Arubia expressed concern over the rising production and consumption of illicit traditional liquor in the region, with Bungoma County leading the country in these illegal activities.
She called for a united effort between the local community, the county, and national government to address this issue. “It’s alarming to see that Bungoma is at the forefront of both producing and consuming illicit brew. We need to work together to tackle this challenge because if we are both the producers and consumers, the problem will only worsen,” she said.
The coordinator also mentioned that neighboring counties have raised concerns about the cross-border distribution of traditional liquor originating from Bungoma. ‘
She highlighted the need for greater community involvement in curbing this problem and underscored the importance of supporting those affected by substance abuse. “We urge anyone struggling with substance use to visit the Bungoma County Referral Hospital, where trained professionals are ready to help manage the conditions related to drug abuse,” she added.
NACADA’s statistics also point to a growing concern over the use of bhang (cannabis) among the youth in the region. In response, the campaign has included opportunities for local youth to voice their opinions on how the government can better address the drug menace.
Bungoma County Commissioner, Thomas Sankei, also raised concerns about rising insecurity in the area, citing recent cases of mob justice and theft. “Even if you do not have money to buy Christmas gifts, do not be tempted to break into someone’s home or steal their belongings. If you are caught, you will face arrest and imprisonment,” Sankei warned.
The event saw the attendance of several county leaders, including Caro Makali (Health and Sanitation), Agnes Wachiye (Education and Vocational Training), Ben Emachar (Gender), and County Secretary William Nasong’o. Together, they pledged continued support for NACADA’s efforts to tackle substance abuse and ensure a safer, healthier environment for the people of Bungoma.
