The government has escalated its fight against illicit brews and substance abuse, conducting 101,661 raids across the country between March and December 2024.
These operations led to the closure of 16,808 non-compliant alcohol outlets and 429 shisha joints, according to Internal Security Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo.
During the raids, authorities confiscated significant quantities of illegal substances, including 531,954 liters of chang’aa, 11,486 liters of ethanol, and 86,327 liters of counterfeit alcohol. Dr. Omollo affirmed that the operations would continue as part of a broader strategy to combat substance abuse, particularly near schools and residential areas.
“We are collaborating with County Governments to tighten licensing regulations and ensure no new establishments are set up near schools,” he said.
To address the challenges posed by disjointed licensing regimes, efforts are underway to harmonize processes between county and national governments, with the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) leading the initiative.
Dr. Omollo emphasized the importance of community involvement in curbing substance abuse. Public education campaigns, community engagement initiatives, and outreach programs targeting youth are ongoing.
Additionally, workplaces and schools have become focal points for prevention efforts, including sporting activities and positive parenting programs.
Retailers found selling alcohol and drugs to minors face prosecution, while the government plans to engage youth through traditional and social media to spread awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
The newly formed Social Health Authority (SHA) is also working to expand access to treatment and rehabilitation centers, with ongoing accreditation of facilities by SHA and Nacada.
Despite these efforts, powerful establishments in affluent areas such as Lavington in Nairobi remain operational, raising complaints about noise and substance abuse.
Dr. Omollo acknowledged the challenges posed by influential entities but reiterated the government’s commitment to enforcing regulations.
He also expressed concern about the rising consumption of heroin and cocaine, with Ethiopia’s Moyale route emerging as a significant trafficking corridor to Nairobi.
The Anti-Narcotics Unit (ANU) is actively working to address this issue.
A recent report by the National Crime Research Centre (NCRC) highlighted that enforcement-focused approaches often push illicit alcohol production underground, exacerbating the problem.
The report called for sustainable solutions that address root causes such as poverty, cultural factors, and limited access to affordable legal alcohol.
“The legacy of traditional brews and informal alcohol production continues to pose public health and safety challenges,” the report noted.
Dr. Omollo urged stakeholders, including faith-based organizations, to spearhead advocacy for healthy lifestyles and support the government’s mission to curb substance abuse.
