KBC Channel 1

Author: Eric Biegon

  • Peace is Kenya’s greatest economic asset, says Mudavadi

    Peace is Kenya’s greatest economic asset, says Mudavadi

    Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi has urged Kenyans to safeguard peace and reject divisive politics.

    The Prime CS described stability as the country’s most valuable economic asset, particularly as preparations for the next General Election gather momentum.

    Speaking during a fellowship service at Redeemed Gospel Church along Likoni Road in Nairobi on Sunday, Mudavadi emphasised that peace underpins every aspect of national development and warned that conflict destroys economies, disrupts livelihoods, and weakens democratic institutions.

    He encouraged Kenyans to reflect on the true value of peace beyond infrastructure and physical development.

    “What is the economic value of peace? Not the economic value of a road, or an airport, or the economic value of a seaport. Let us reflect on the economic value of peace,” Mr Mudavadi said.

    He noted that while countries may invest heavily in roads, ports, and airports, those investments become meaningless if insecurity and violence prevail.

    “Your children can go to school because of peace. Your businesses will open because we are keeping peace. Our sick will be able to go to a hospital because of peace. Just blow it up and imagine, in a state of chaos, where do we lie?” he posed.

    Mudavadi’s remarks come against a backdrop of growing geopolitical tensions worldwide, which he said continue to demonstrate the devastating economic consequences of conflict. Drawing lessons from ongoing international crises, he pointed to disruptions in global maritime trade routes that have affected supply chains, trade flows, and the global economy.

    “The most beautiful airports became ghost airports. The busiest seaways for free navigation are impassable,” he stated.

    He noted that nearly one-fifth of global trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of several strategic maritime passages whose disruption has far-reaching consequences for economies across the world.

    “There are about seven straits globally that are very important. We are now suffering the effects of one. If war was to prevail, what would happen to the world?” Mudavadi asked.

    He said the unfolding global situation illustrates how peace remains indispensable not only for security but also for economic prosperity, investment, and uninterrupted trade.

    The Prime Cabinet Secretary also said ongoing conflicts have placed international governance institutions under significant pressure, underscoring the need for nations to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

    Turning to Kenya’s political landscape, Mr Mudavadi appealed to citizens to uphold national unity and maintain peace as the country prepares for the next General Election.

    “As we head into this election next year, we ask that every Kenyan maintains peace and ensures peaceful and harmonious polls,” he said.

    He urged eligible Kenyans to register as voters and participate responsibly in the democratic process, stating that credible and peaceful elections are essential for preserving the country’s stability and sustaining economic growth.

    Mr Mudavadi further appealed to political leaders to avoid rhetoric that could divide communities, stressing that peace, strong democratic institutions, and responsible leadership remain critical to Kenya’s future.

    He said Kenya’s continued progress depends not only on investments in infrastructure and economic reforms but also on protecting the peaceful environment that allows businesses to operate, children to learn, and essential public services to function.

    “Reflect deeply on the economic value of peace. Your businesses will open because we are keeping peace. Our children will go to school because of peace. Our sick will be able to go to hospital because of peace.” Mudavadi reiterated.

    He called on all Kenyans to work together in safeguarding the country’s stability, saying peace remains the bedrock upon which national development, investor confidence, and shared prosperity are built.

  • China showcases poverty success as CPC marks 105 years of leadership

    China showcases poverty success as CPC marks 105 years of leadership

    As the Communist Party of China (CPC) marks its 105th anniversary this year, the world’s second-largest power highlights the elimination of extreme poverty as one of its most significant development achievements. The Party, particularly, attributes this success to decades of people-centred governance and sustained national planning.

    China became the first country to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of ending extreme poverty, reaching this milestone ten years ahead of the 2030 deadline.

    Chinese officials and analysts note that the achievement stemmed from long-term leadership of the CPC and the policies championed by President Xi Jinping, which placed improving people’s livelihoods at the heart of national development. They assert that the Party’s mission has consistently focused on enhancing living standards, narrowing development gaps, and ensuring the benefits of economic growth reach all sections of society.

    Poverty eradication became a top national priority following the 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012. Under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, China launched an intensive eight-year poverty alleviation campaign that concluded in 2020, officially eliminating extreme poverty that had persisted for centuries.

    To consolidate these gains, the government introduced a five-year transition period from 2021 to 2025, maintaining key support measures for formerly impoverished areas to prevent households from falling back into poverty, while simultaneously promoting sustainable economic development.

    According to national statistics, per capita disposable income in formerly impoverished areas reached 10,627 yuan in 2025, with annual income growth averaging 8.2 per cent, outperforming the average growth rate in other rural regions.

    Beginning this year, China has integrated its poverty reduction programme with its broader rural revitalisation strategy. This initiative seeks to modernise agriculture, strengthen rural industries, improve infrastructure and public services, and raise living standards across the countryside.

    A cornerstone of China’s campaign was its targeted poverty alleviation strategy, introduced under President Xi Jinping. This approach emphasised identifying each impoverished household, understanding the specific causes of poverty, and delivering tailored assistance based on local needs.

    To support the programme, China established a nationwide poverty information system. This system enabled authorities to identify and register poor households, assess the causes of poverty, and implement targeted interventions.

    Government assistance extended beyond direct financial support to include vocational training, education, healthcare, improved housing, and employment opportunities, helping households build sustainable livelihoods and achieve long-term economic independence.

    The CPC also established partnerships between more developed provinces and less-developed regions to promote investment, industrial development, technology transfer, and skills training. Chinese authorities state that this collaboration helped reduce regional disparities and ensured no community was left behind.

    As the Party commemorates 105 years since its founding, the CPC presents the elimination of extreme poverty as one of its defining achievements under its long-term development strategy. China asserts that this experience demonstrates how sustained political commitment, targeted policies, and people-centred development can contribute to reducing poverty while advancing broader rural revitalisation, offering practical lessons for countries pursuing inclusive development.

  • Govt steps up shift from traditional fuels to clean cooking by 2028

    Govt steps up shift from traditional fuels to clean cooking by 2028

    The Kenyan Government is intensifying efforts to transition millions of households from traditional cooking fuels, such as firewood and charcoal, to cleaner alternatives. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi describes the shift as crucial for improving public health, protecting the environment, and expanding access to sustainable energy.

    Speaking during the opening of a respiratory medical camp at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Siaya Campus, Wandayi reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to achieving universal access to clean cooking by 2028 through the Kenya National Clean Cooking Transition Strategy.

    He stated that the initiative aims to mitigate the health risks associated with household air pollution, which currently affects millions of Kenyans reliant on traditional cooking fuels.

    “An estimated 9.1 million Kenyan households, including 1.7 million urban and 7.4 million rural households, still rely on traditional cooking fuels, exposing millions of women, children and the elderly to smoke that contributes to respiratory illnesses and other health complications,” he explained.

    Wandayi noted that the Government’s clean cooking strategy acknowledges the diverse energy needs of communities, promoting a range of affordable and sustainable cooking options, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), electric cooking, bioethanol, biogas, and improved cookstoves.

    To expedite this transition, he stated that the Ministry is working to expand access to clean cooking technologies while simultaneously addressing the affordability barriers that have hindered adoption in many households.

    “We are working to bridge the supply gap by expanding the availability and accessibility of clean cooking technologies and fuels. We are also addressing affordability challenges to ensure that more households can adopt cleaner solutions without placing additional pressure on household incomes,” he said.

    The Cabinet Secretary further added that the Government is leveraging the clean energy transition to stimulate economic growth by supporting the local production of clean cooking technologies and fuels.

    “We are promoting local manufacturing of clean cooking technologies and supporting local fuel production. This will not only improve access but also create jobs, stimulate enterprise development and strengthen Kenya’s economy,” he affirmed.

    Wandayi also underscored the importance of public awareness, noting that many households remain uninformed about the health, environmental, and economic benefits of clean cooking.

    “We are investing in public awareness and education because many households still lack information on the health, economic, and environmental benefits of clean cooking,” he stated.

    He highlighted that the Integrated National Energy Plan (INEP) 2023–2043 places clean cooking at the core of both national and county energy planning. This empowers counties with greater responsibility to develop solutions that reflect local cooking practices, available resources, and community needs.

    Wandayi urged county governments to capitalise on this framework by investing in practical clean cooking initiatives that improve household health while supporting local economic development.

    He also encouraged residents to utilise the free respiratory screening services offered during the two-day medical camp, stressing that early diagnosis and prevention are crucial in reducing the burden of respiratory diseases linked to household air pollution.

  • Kenyan business leaders urged to expedite Al adoption

    Kenyan business leaders urged to expedite Al adoption

    At a time when artificial intelligence is rapidly redefining the future of enterprise, Kenyan business leaders are being urged to move beyond experimentation and begin embedding Al into the heart of their operations or risk falling behind in an increasingly digital global economy.

    This was the dominant message at the Modern Work, Cloud & Al Executive Breakfast, hosted in Nairobi by Syntura, Microsoft and Westcon-Comstor, where executives from healthcare, media, financial services and technology convened to discuss how organizations can practically unlock value from Al, cloud infrastructure and modern workplace tools.

    The executive breakfast, designed as an intimate, high-value forum rather than a traditional conference, focused on practical applications of Microsoft 365, Microsoft Copilot, Microsoft Azure and secure cloud adoption, reflecting the urgency many organizations now face as Al moves from concept to operational necessity.

    The conversations highlighted a growing shift in boardroom thinking: Al is no longer viewed simply as a technology investment, but increasingly as a business capability that determines competitiveness, resilience and growth.

    “Technology can always be bought.
    Capability cannot,” said Vincent Entonu, – Managing Director, Westcon Microsoft Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing that the true differentiator in the Al era is not access to tools, but the ability of organizations to build the skills, systems and culture required to use them effectively.

    His remarks underscored a growing reality in African markets where the question is no longer whether to adopt Al, but how quickly organizations can do so responsibly and strategically.

    According to McKinsey & Company, generative Al could contribute up to $4.4 trillion annually to the global economy through productivity gains, while PwC projects Al will add $15.7 trillion to global GDP by 2030, making it one of the largest commercial opportunities of this generation.

    Yet for many businesses in Kenya, the path to Al readiness remains blocked by fragmented systems, poor data quality and slow decision-making.

    Speaking at the breakfast, Dr. Magdalyne Kamande – Director of ICT & Transformation Services, The Nairobi Hospital, stressed that successful Al transformation begins with strong data foundations and business clarity.

    “You cannot build intelligent systems on fragmented, manual records. Data must first be structured, governed and trusted before Al can deliver meaningful outcomes,” she said, pointing to healthcare as one of the sectors where precision, compliance and trust are non-negotiable.

    Her perspective reflects broader concerns around data sovereignty, privacy and compliance, particularly in heavily regulated sectors such as healthcare and financial services.

    For many executives in attendance, the discussion reinforced that Al adoption is less about buying software and more about rethinking workflows, talent and decision-making.

    Industry leaders at the breakfast emphasized that Africa’s Al opportunity will not be defined by how quickly organizations chase trends, but by how intentionally they build the right foundations for scale.

    The consensus was clear: Al has the potential to democratize productivity, accelerate innovation and unlock new efficiencies across sectors, but its real value lies in augmenting human capability rather than replacing it. For organizations to fully realize this potential, Al must be treated as a long-term strategic enabler of business transformation, embedded into workflows, decision-making and talent development, rather than viewed merely as a short-term efficiency tool.

    The breakfast also surfaced an important shift in how businesses define return on investment. Rather than measuring Al solely through direct revenue gains, leaders increasingly pointed to improved customer experience, reduced compliance risk, faster decision-making and stronger operational resilience as critical metrics.

    In sectors such as media, Al is already being used to strengthen editorial quality control and reduce legal exposure, while in HR and finance, intelligent automation is streamlining repetitive tasks and improving internal productivity.

    According to Gartner, by 2028 nearly one-third of enterprise software applications will include agentic Al capabilities, fundamentally reshaping how businesses operate. For Kenya’s corporate sector, the implications are significant. The rise of Al means businesses are no longer competing only with local peers, but against the best digital experiences customers encounter globally – whether on Amazon, Uber or Netflix.

    That benchmark is raising expectations for speed, personalization and efficiency across every industry.

    As businesses continue navigating economic uncertainty, digital transformation is increasingly becoming less of an innovation agenda and more of a survival strategy.

    The consensus from Nairobi was clear:
    organizations do not need to have every answer before they begin, but they must begin. In a market where Al is quickly becoming as foundational as electricity or internet connectivity, the businesses that will lead tomorrow are the ones willing to invest in capability, clean data, talent development and cloud infrastructure today.

    The age of watching from the sidelines is closing fast. For Kenya’s boardrooms, the Al era is no longer approaching. It is already here.

  • NTSA introduces tighter vehicle inspection rules

    NTSA introduces tighter vehicle inspection rules

    The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued new directives requiring owners of motor vehicles more than four years old to present their vehicles for annual inspection from 1st July. The authority says the measures aim to enhance road safety and ensure that only roadworthy vehicles operate on Kenyan roads.

    In a public notice, the NTSA Director General, Nashon Kondiwa, stated that inspections would be conducted at its designated centres. Affected motorists must book appointments via the NTSA service portal, accessible through the eCitizen platform.

    Kondiwa said the move aligns with Section 55 of the Traffic Act and forms part of its broader mandate to register, license, inspect, and certify motor vehicles.

    “All motor vehicle owners with vehicles above four years from the recorded date of manufacture are therefore expected to book for annual inspection through the NTSA service portal accessible through the eCitizen platform,” He reiterated.

    However, the NTSA boss clarified that the enforcement date for mandatory inspections of private motor vehicles would be announced separately.

    Motorists were also cautioned against seeking inspection services from private entities, as the NTSA has not yet licensed any private company to conduct motor vehicle inspections.

    “NTSA has not yet licensed any private entity to offer motor vehicle inspection services,” the statement affirmed.

    In addition to the new requirements for older vehicles, the NTSA announced that inspections for school transport vehicles and commercial service vehicles would continue at all its inspection centres.

    School management and transport operators are directed to ensure that vehicles transporting learners are roadworthy and display valid inspection stickers. Law enforcement officers have been instructed to verify the authenticity of the stickers using the NTSA Mobile App.

    Similarly, owners of commercial service vehicles must ensure their vehicles undergo inspection and obtain valid inspection stickers before operating on public roads. The Authority stated that the implementation of certain provisions under the Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2026, including reflectorised red stop mechanical signal arms and telematic systems, would be communicated to the public at a later date.

    Enforcement of regulations requiring telematic systems and underride protection devices for commercial vehicles has also been deferred, with the implementation schedule to be announced in due course.

    The NTSA reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on corruption, warning the public against individuals claiming they can fast-track inspections or influence the outcome of NTSA services.

    “The Authority is committed to acting professionally, fairly, and with integrity,” Kondiwa said in the statement, urging the public to report any bribery or fraud attempts to the NTSA or the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.

    The new directives, he said, are part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to strengthen vehicle compliance, improve roadworthiness, and enhance safety for all road users.

  • NPS probes alleged police misconduct during June 25 demos

    NPS probes alleged police misconduct during June 25 demos

    The National Police Service (NPS) announced Friday evening that it has initiated an investigation into the alleged mistreatment of a suspect during an arrest in Nakuru.

    The investigation follows the widespread circulation on social media of a video depicting what the Service described as the inappropriate handling of a suspect during an arrest in Nakuru City during the June anniversary demonstrations.

    In a statement, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga condemned all forms of unprofessional conduct, excessive force, and violations of established policing procedures.

    “The Service strongly condemns all forms of unprofessional conduct, excessive force, or breaches of established procedures. We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, respect for human rights, and adherence to the Constitution of Kenya and other relevant laws,” he said.

    The move, according to Nyaga reaffirms the Service’s commitment to professional policing and includes a warning that officers found culpable of misconduct will face disciplinary action.

    Preliminary reports suggest that the arrest may not have complied with the National Police Service’s Standard Operating Procedures or the legal safeguards designed to protect the dignity and constitutional rights of suspects.

    Nyaga confirmed that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has instructed the Internal Affairs Unit to conduct a thorough, professional, and impartial investigation, with findings to be submitted within seven days.

    “Such behavior is unacceptable and contrary to the core values of the National Police Service. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings,” he said.

    The Service has appealed to members of the public with information pertinent to the investigation to report it to their nearest police station or use available police reporting channels.

    Nyaga reiterated the National Police Service’s zero-tolerance policy against police brutality, misconduct, and any actions that undermine public confidence.

    “We remain committed to professional policing that serves and protects all Kenyans, residents and visitors while fully respecting their constitutional rights,” he said.

  • Government ends decades of land uncertainty in Kihiu Mwiri

    Government ends decades of land uncertainty in Kihiu Mwiri

    Hundreds of families in Kihiu Mwiri, Gatanga Sub-County, have finally secured legal ownership of their land after decades of uncertainty, with the Government issuing 750 title deeds, a significant step towards resolving historical land disputes and injustices in the area.

    The initiative, led by Alice Wahome, Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development, brings the total number of title deeds issued in Kihiu Mwiri over the past three years to 4,450. The move substantially reduces a longstanding backlog in land ownership documentation, which had left many families without legally recognised documents.

    “Today, we are issuing 750 title deeds to the people of Kihiu Mwiri. This brings the total number of title deeds issued in the area over the last three years to 4,450,” stated CS Wahome.

    For many residents, these documents represent more than just proof of ownership. Years of unresolved land claims had created uncertainty, hindered investment and, at times, fuelled conflict within the community.

    CS Wahome affirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring every Kenyan enjoys secure land tenure. She described title deeds as instruments of economic empowerment that enable landowners to invest confidently, access credit and participate more fully in national development.

    “A title deed is not just proof of ownership. It empowers families to invest in their land, access financial opportunities and improve their livelihoods,” she explained.

    She added that resolving historical land ownership challenges remains a key Government priority, emphasising that secure property rights provide the foundation for sustainable economic growth and social stability.

    The Cabinet Secretary also highlighted broader Government development programmes aimed at improving livelihoods. These include the Affordable Housing Programme, the construction of modern markets and the expansion of other public infrastructure.

    She noted that over 600,000 affordable housing units are currently at various stages of development across the country, alongside markets designed to support traders and stimulate local economies.

    CS Wahome reiterated President William Ruto’s administration’s commitment to delivering programmes that create economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

    The issuance of these title deeds marks a turning point for Kihiu Mwiri, where generations of families have awaited legal recognition of their land rights. With ownership now secured, residents are expected to benefit from greater tenure security, increased investment, easier access to credit and renewed confidence in planning for future generations.

    The ceremony was attended by Nominated Senator Veronica Maina, Maragua MP Mary Waithera Wamaua, Murang’a County Commissioner Hassan Bule and other local leaders.

  • Bitok champions aviation reforms to unlock Kenya’s tourism potential

    Bitok champions aviation reforms to unlock Kenya’s tourism potential

    The Kenyan Government is set to undertake a significant policy shift, reviewing restrictions on international airlines and flight frequencies in a move aimed at boosting tourist arrivals and establish Kenya as one of Africa’s most competitive travel destinations.

    Principal Secretary Julius Bitok announced that the review would assess existing aviation policies to enhance air connectivity. He says the process will carefully balance airport capacity, security considerations, and other national interests, involving relevant government agencies and private sector stakeholders.

    Speaking at the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC) Annual Symposium in Malindi, Bitok emphasised that expanded air access is central to the Government’s strategy of doubling international tourist arrivals to five million by 2028.

    “We are serious about doubling the number of tourist arrivals in Kenya by 2028. That means doing all we can to create an enabling environment, including improving the policy framework to support the industry’s growth,” he stated.

    Last year, Kenya welcomed approximately 2.7 million international visitors, a figure significantly below its long-term target. Industry experts attribute this shortfall to restrictive aviation policies, limited flight frequencies, inadequate airport infrastructure in key tourism areas like Malindi and Diani, and poor road connectivity.

    Bitok acknowledged these concerns, affirming the Government’s commitment to removing barriers that have historically hindered the sector’s growth.

    He challenged the hospitality industry to complement these government reforms by intensifying destination marketing efforts and investing in products that attract more visitors.

    “If I convince the Government to create a more enabling aviation environment by opening up our skies, will the industry be ready to bring in more visitors?” he enquired.

    KAHC Chairman Christopher Musau welcomed the proposed reforms, noting that a more flexible aviation policy would enable Kenya to leverage its competitive tourism advantages and attract a greater number of international travellers.

    Bitok highlighted Kenya’s strong position to receive visitors throughout the year, owing to its diverse tourism offerings, which range from wildlife and national parks to beaches, culture, and scenic landscapes.

    He added that the Government is also strengthening Kenya’s standing as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). He said the ongoing modernisation of Bomas of Kenya is expected to significantly expand the country’s conference hosting capacity.

    The Principal Secretary further challenged hotels and other hospitality establishments to uphold high service standards, noting that visitor satisfaction remains one of the country’s most effective tourism marketing tools.

    He also advocated for increased investment in the tourism workforce, stressing that skilled personnel would be crucial for the sector’s ability to sustain future growth.

    “Our people continue to be our most valuable asset. We must continue to invest in skills development, youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and fair labour practices throughout the industry,” he asserted.

    Bitok said stronger collaboration between the Government and the private sector would be vital for unlocking Kenya’s tourism potential and achieving the country’s ambitious visitor growth targets.

  • TSC pushes back against political meddling in teacher transfers

    TSC pushes back against political meddling in teacher transfers

    Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), Eveleen Mitei,  has cautioned politicians, sponsors, and other education stakeholders against meddling in teacher transfers and deployments.

    The TSC boss firmly argues that school staffing decisions are the exclusive constitutional mandate of the Commission.

    Speaking at the 49th Annual Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA) Conference in Mombasa, Mitei disclosed a recent increase in attempts by external actors to influence teacher transfers. She stressed that such practices undermine the TSC’s independence and established staffing procedures.

    “We value our stakeholders, but we ask them to allow the Commission to fulfil its mandate. I constantly receive letters instructing us to move teachers from one location to another. We maintain that this mandate lies strictly with the Commission,” Mitei affirmed.

    She emphasised that while the Commission welcomes recommendations, all decisions regarding recruitment, deployment, and transfers are made based on objective employer criteria and in accordance with the law.

    “You can give us your proposals, and we will consider them based on the criteria we use as an employer, but we do not need any help from anyone in staffing our schools,” she clarified.

    Mitei urged the National Assembly’s Education Committee to safeguard the Commission’s constitutional independence and protect teachers from undue victimisation resulting from external pressure concerning transfers.

    The Acting CEO also appealed to school principals in institutions with surplus teachers to release them for redeployment to schools facing acute staffing shortages, noting that equitable distribution of teachers remains a priority, despite budgetary constraints.

    Beyond staffing matters, Mitei announced that the Commission is preparing to implement the second phase of the teachers’ Collective Bargaining Agreement next month and encouraged teachers to participate fully in the upcoming Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) job evaluation exercise.

    “As principals, tell SRC what you do. Don’t tell them you are doing nothing. Once we submit the job descriptions to SRC, they will soon start evaluating teachers,” she advised.

    Mitei added that the TSC has reviewed Legal Notice No. 50 to enhance support for special needs education by equipping teachers with the specialised skills required in an evolving education system.

    She says the Commission will continue to pursue reforms aimed at improving teacher registration, addressing staffing shortages, and supporting competency-based education. However, she noted that sustained progress would depend on increased investment in both financial and human resources.

    “We have a rapidly changing education landscape, and we should be ready to handle it. We have resource constraints, but we have all of you to manage with whatever is available,” she observed.

    Mitei further called on Parliament to allocate more funding to the education sector. This, she argued, would enable the Commission and schools to meet the growing demand for teachers and deliver quality education across the country.

  • Kenya steps up war on drugs amid rising addiction crisis

    Kenya steps up war on drugs amid rising addiction crisis

    Kenya has announced intensified efforts against drug abuse and illicit trafficking following new data that reveals nearly one in every six Kenyans uses drugs or other substances. The alarming statistic prompted urgent national calls to reverse what leaders describe as a growing public health and security crisis.

    The stark warning dominated this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADA) commemorations, held at the Miritini Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa County. The event, themed “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” brought together senior government officials, recovery advocates, and community leaders to devise a stronger response to the escalating threat.

    According to the latest National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) survey, an estimated 4.7 million Kenyans aged between 15 and 65 years currently use at least one drug or substance of abuse. The findings identify the Coast region as the most affected area in the country, with 29.3 per cent of residents reporting substance use. Mombasa County records the highest national prevalence at 34.4 per cent.

    Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo said the figures should serve as a wake-up call for every Kenyan.

    “These are not just statistics. They represent our children, our brothers and sisters, our colleagues, and our future workforce. Behind every number is a life that can either be lost to addiction or restored through timely intervention and support,” he said.

    Dr Omollo added that the Government is strengthening a comprehensive strategy that extends beyond arrests and prosecutions by expanding prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration programmes.

    “While enforcement remains critical, it is only one part of the solution. Sustainable success can only be achieved through a balanced and comprehensive approach that prioritises prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation, and social reintegration,” he explained.

    The Government’s determination to dismantle drug trafficking networks was underscored by the recent seizure of 1,024 kilograms of 98 per cent pure crystal methamphetamine, valued at approximately Ksh8.2 billion, in the Indian Ocean. This represents one of the country’s largest narcotics interceptions.

    Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen affirmed that security agencies would continue to pursue traffickers through intelligence-led operations and closer collaboration among enforcement agencies.

    “Our message is clear,” Murkomen stated. “We will continue to strengthen intelligence gathering, enhance inter-agency cooperation, and pursue traffickers relentlessly wherever they operate.”

    As traffickers adopt increasingly sophisticated methods, NACADA recognises that Kenya must also modernise its response.

    Bishop Dr Stephen Mairori, Board Chairman, announced that the Authority has introduced wastewater analysis technology to monitor drug consumption trends in near real-time, enabling faster, evidence-based interventions.

    “If the drug problem is changing, our responses must change with it,” he said.

    The event also highlighted the importance of prevention through education and youth engagement. NACADA recognised the winners of its National Essay Writing Competition for secondary schools, an initiative aimed at encouraging young people to participate in the fight against substance abuse.

    Omar Mohamed of Kongowea Secondary School, the Mombasa County winner, was honoured for his essay titled “Parental and Community Responsibility in Protecting Learners from Drugs,” which emphasised the critical role families and communities play in shielding young people from addiction.

    Speakers unanimously agreed that government action alone cannot overcome the challenge, calling for stronger partnerships with parents, teachers, religious leaders, civil society, and the private sector.

    Dr Omollo urged every sector of society to take ownership of the fight, stating that lasting success would depend on collective responsibility rather than government intervention alone.

    As Kenya strengthens both enforcement and rehabilitation efforts, leaders expressed confidence that innovation, evidence-driven policies, and sustained public participation can reverse current trends and protect future generations.

    “Every life saved from addiction strengthens our nation. Together, we can build a Kenya where our young people are healthy, productive, and empowered to contribute to national development,” Murkomen said.