The national government is in the process of finalising a policy aimed at implementing strategic measures to tackle the issue of alcohol and drug abuse in the country.
The National Policy for the Prevention, Management, and Control of Alcohol, Drug, and Substance Abuse is anticipated to provide a cohesive framework to address these challenges, safeguarding the health, safety, and well-being of Kenyans.
According to the draft policy, the primary objective is to establish a comprehensive set of measures to develop and implement interventions that effectively mitigate the detrimental effects of harmful alcohol, drug, and substance use on individuals, families and the nation at large.
Speaking at a stakeholders' meeting with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Mombasa County Commissioner Mohammed Nur underscored the significance of the policy.
"This policy will bolster government efforts to close loopholes in the regulation of alcohol, drugs, and substance abuse," Nur said.
He highlighted recent successes in Mombasa, including the closure of 167 bars near sensitive areas such as schools and religious institutions.
The commissioner also detailed ongoing efforts to combat the illicit brew trade, citing significant seizures of contraband substances.
"We have apprehended individuals in possession of nearly 30,000 litres of illicit brew, resulting in the arrest of 180 suspects," he said.
Nur emphasised the importance of disrupting supply routes for drugs like marijuana, originating from regions such as Kwale and Samburu.
Expressing concern over the rise in miraa and mugoka consumption, Nur said there is need for targeted interventions to address this trend, particularly among youth.
"We are witnessing a concerning pattern where young individuals, some as young as 16, are being drawn into criminal activities due to substance abuse," he said.
Nur urged parents to take proactive measures in supervising their children, especially during school holidays, to prevent their involvement in illicit activities.
He also announced intensified law enforcement operations, aimed at dismantling criminal networks and securing communities.
Reachout Centre director, Taib Abdulrahman, hailed the drafting of the policy as a significant milestone.
"For years, we've operated under an act without a comprehensive policy framework. This policy will provide much-needed guidance for stakeholders and government agencies," Abdulrahman said.
He stressed the importance of allocating resources effectively, particularly for rehabilitation programmes in coastal regions.
International Institute for Legislative Affairs CEO Celine Awuor emphasised the grave consequences of alcohol abuse on public health and social well-being.
"Alcohol-related harms are a pressing issue, contributing to non-communicable diseases and social disintegration," she said.
Awuor expressed optimism about the policy's focus on regulating alcohol marketing and availability, aligning with global initiatives.