The government has unveiled an ambitious nationwide plan to establish rehabilitation centres in all 47 counties as part of renewed efforts to address the growing crisis of drug and substance abuse, particularly among young people.
President William Ruto announced the initiative on January 7 after chairing a high-level multi-agency meeting at State House, where officials reviewed progress on his New Year pledge to intensify the fight against drugs. The meeting brought together security agencies, health officials and policymakers tasked with developing a coordinated national response.
Under the plan, the national government will work closely with county governments and the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) to set up and operationalise the rehabilitation facilities. The centres are expected to provide treatment, counselling and reintegration support for individuals struggling with addiction.
“We will establish rehabilitation centres in all 47 counties, working closely with county governments and NACADA, alongside strengthened rehabilitation services in national referral hospitals,” President Ruto said.
In addition to county-based centres, the government will enhance existing rehabilitation units within national referral hospitals to expand access to specialised treatment and recovery services. Patients admitted to the facilities will be covered under the Social Health Authority, a move aimed at easing the financial burden on families and ensuring sustained care during recovery.
Beyond treatment, the President outlined tougher measures to disrupt drug trafficking networks and organised crime. He announced the deployment of multi-agency border teams at five key entry points to curb the inflow of narcotics into the country. More officers will also be assigned to the Anti-Narcotics Unit, supported by specialised training and improved logistical capacity.
Ruto emphasised that the government is adopting a whole-of-government approach that integrates prevention, law enforcement, treatment and recovery, describing drug abuse as both a public health and national security concern. He added that a new legal framework is being finalised to improve coordination, accountability and effectiveness among state agencies involved in the anti-drug campaign.
The State House meeting came a day after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen held a separate security briefing, where he announced a nationwide crackdown on illicit alcohol, ethanol and drug distribution. The operation will include the seizure of assets and properties acquired through proceeds of illegal alcohol and drug trafficking.
The government says the combined measures are intended to protect communities, restore lives and stem the rising tide of addiction across the country.