Rift Valley Struggles: Over 1 Million Caught in Alcohol and Drug Abuse – NACADA’s Alarming Report
In the Rift Valley region, the number of individuals grappling with alcohol, drug, and substance addiction exceeds one million, with over 400,000 requiring rehabilitation services.
Rev. Stephen Mairori, chairman of the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), stated as much at the Koiwa Hospital in Bomet County, where he was speaking at the inauguration of a Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre.
Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, the spouse of the Deputy President, inaugurated the facility.
“In Rift Valley alone, over 1 million use alcohol and other forms of drugs. Out of these numbers about 400,000 need rehabilitation. That’s a very large number,” he said.
During the inauguration of the center, Pastor Dorcas expressed concern over the 22 percent prevalence of drugs and substance addiction in Bomet County.
“I understand there is a 22% prevalence of drugs in this county. That is very bad, and if we don’t do something Governor (Hillary Barchok), this county will have a big problem,” she said.
A screening exercise has been undertaken by the Office of the Spouse of the Deputy President, in conjunction with other relevant parties, to identify individuals who require rehabilitation services.
37 men from the Konoin region indicated an interest in rehabilitation during the screening exercise, while 56 men from the Sotik region volunteered.
A total of 72 were detected in Chepalungu, whereas Bomet East and Central each identified 41.
One hundred males have enrolled as the inaugural cohort of three months of treatment and rehabilitation at the facility.
Pastor Dorcas further urged every county to welcome these facilities as a means of ensuring the nation’s long-term security.
She has been involving county first ladies in initiatives of this nature, which she intends to expand nationwide.
As of now, she has established a health village in Rumuruti, Laikipia County, and a facility in the Ngorano region has been the subject of an MOU between her and the Nyeri County Government.
This week, the Dorcas Rigathi Foundation Centre, situated in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, commenced operations. It is currently accommodating the second cohort of the rehabilitation program that is administered by her office.
In addition, they have participated in the ongoing tree-planting initiative to meet President William Ruto’s goal of 15 billion trees, while simultaneously securing a market for the seedlings.
Technical courses are scheduled to be conducted for the students while they are at the facilities.
Pastor Dorcas issued a further admonition to those engaged in the distribution of lethal beverages throughout the nation, proclaiming that their time has come.
“Those selling poison to our children must close those businesses and get something else to do,” she said.
Governor of Bomet, Dr. Hillary Barchok, stated that his administration will provide support for the program, which he claims benefits the entire nation and not just the county.
“This facility that we have opened, will not only help the people of Bomet but it is a facility that is meant for all of us,” he said.
Governor Barchok praised Pastor Dorcas’s initiative and commended her for demonstrating compassion towards those afflicted with alcoholism, drug addiction, and substance misuse, rather than condemning them.
Cosmas Korir, the speaker of the Bomet County Assembly, stated that the body is prepared to support the initiative.
Saline Barchok, the first lady of the county, praised the initiative, stating that it is also a step in the correct direction toward saving the lives of young girls.
In addition to speaking harshly about the LGBTQ debate, Pastor Dorcas stated that Africa is not prepared for it.
Rift Valley Struggles: Over 1 Million Caught in Alcohol and Drug Abuse – NACADA’s Alarming Report