Uhuru declares war on drug trafficking

President Kenyatta Monday declared war on drug trafficking, ordering police to arrest perpetrators and deport foreigners involved in the trade.

The President argued that by cutting out the supply chain and formulating concrete measures, drug abuse in the country would significantly reduce.

County chiefs were also asked to develop measures to ensure that children were not exposed to alcohol and other illicit brews across the country.


Speaking while opening the second national conference on alcohol and drug abuse, he challenged parents to consistently be involved in the day-to-day lives of their children.

“There’s need to educate the youth on drug abuse,” President Kenyatta said, noting that parental negligence was a key factor in the increase of drug-related cases, as well as socio-economic and peer pressure.

“I therefore call upon learning institutions, faith-based organisations and the civil society to scale up the fight against alcohol and drug abuse.”

He challenged the National Authority for Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) to use the three-day forum to develop tangible measures that will aid in the fight against drugs.

Nacada chief William Okedi warned that consumption of alcohol in sachets and plastic bottles had increased the risks involved as unscrupulous traders injected the sachets with chemicals.

Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero called on the national and county governments to develop and implement policies that would augment other legislation in the fight against drug abuse in the country.

Interior and Coordination of National Government Cabinet secretary Joseph ole Lenku appealed to all Kenyans to protect the youth from drug and substance abuse among other anti-social activities to secure the country’s future.

Dr Kidero said the government’s projected double digit economic growth can be accelerated when drug abuse and excessive consumption of alcohol are adequately addressed.

Noting that in every 15 youths, one has either experienced with or consumed drugs, Devolution and Planning Cabinet Secretary Ann Waiguru underscored the need for concerted efforts to create awareness on the dangers of drug abuse.