NACADA urges shift from reaction to prevention in fight against drugs

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has called for greater focus on preventive measures in the fight against substance abuse.

Speaking during national celebrations to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADA) held in Embu County, NACADA Board Chairman Rev. Dr. Stephen Mairori said prevention remains the most effective way to protect communities and the country’s future.

“Prevention is not only cost-effective but also one of the most sustainable strategies in this fight,” said Rev. Mairori. “By educating our youth, empowering families, and creating supportive environments, we can stop addiction before it starts.”

This year’s commemoration was held under the theme “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention. Break the cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime.”

The event brought together government officials, youth, community leaders and civil society actors in a united call to end drug abuse.

Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, who graced the occasion, lauded NACADA’s multi-sectoral approach in addressing the crisis, saying the authority’s efforts have contributed to reducing drug-related harm in the region.

“NACADA’s work aligns with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda by fostering healthy, productive communities,” said Rotich. “When we prevent drug abuse, we secure our future workforce, reduce crime, and promote national development.”

Similar events were held across all 47 counties, led by NACADA county coordinators, and featured marches, school sensitisation programmes, and stakeholder forums.