- Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the government has put in place mechanisms to contain drug and substance abuse in the coastal region.
- He asked leaders to support the ongoing efforts to eradicate illicit brews and drugs across the country.
Image: FILE
President William Ruto has advised Kenyans against the consumption of shisha.
The President warned that shisha destroys the lives of skilled youths who have the potential to transform the country.
Ruto asked leaders to be an example and demonstrate seriousness in the fight against drug abuse.
The President said there was no way the vice would be contained if leaders didn't fight it.
"Kuna watu kati yetu hapa kwa sababu ya udosi kidogo wanaenda wanavuta kitu inaitwa shisha na hio shisha iko na madawa ya kulevya na pombe," Ruro said.
"Sasa niawaulize what moral authority do we have to lecture other people about drugs if we leaders are in it. I'm speaking to you as your Christian brother, the same way I tell other people. Hii kitu inaitwa shisha iko na kisirani, mjichunge so that we do not get addicted."
Ruto called for sincerity and honesty among leaders in fighting the menace
"As leaders, we must lead by example in everything we do so that other Kenyans can emulate us," Ruto said.
Ruto spoke on Monday when he addressed Muslim leaders at State House, Nairobi.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the government has put in place mechanisms to contain drug and substance abuse in the coastal region.
He asked leaders to support the ongoing efforts to eradicate illicit brews and drugs across the country.
"We are coming back to the Coast region on issues of drugs. Leaders should be ready to work with us in eradicating this menace," Gachagua said.
Cabinet Secretaries Aden Duale (Defence) and Salim Mvurya (Mining), Governors Nathif Jama (Garissa), Issa Timamy (Lamu) and Ali Mohamud (Marsabit), among other leaders were also present.
The President added that the government is implementing programmes to deal with unemployment as part of efforts to eliminate illicit brews and drugs among the youth.
"Our policies in agriculture, the digital superhighway and housing, among others, are geared towards creating job opportunities for the youth," he added.
The President commended Muslims for their strong faith and unity, saying Christians should emulate them.
He urged Muslims and Christians to continue praying for peace and stability in the country, noting that peace was necessary for prosperity to be realised.