NACADA has trained 66 probation officers in Nairobi to help them better handle cases of alcohol and drug abuse. The two-day training focused on improving how officers identify and deal with substance abuse among offenders.
During the training sessions, the officials got insights into how to detect signs of drug abuse among offenders, many of whom struggle with substance use.
The training also helped the probation officers understand how to handle drug abuse cases in a manner that encourages reform. This aims to help offenders become responsible and reintegrate into society without stigma.
NACADA has been promoting collaboration among stakeholders handling drug abuse cases. This would ensure that offenders in question do not fall through the cracks as they receive all the necessary assistance from relevant quarters.
Addressing reporters who covered the seminar, the CEO of NACADA, Mr. Anthony Omerikwa, said that training is part of the many strategies being adopted to combat drug abuse in the country.
“Through the training, we aim at bringing together all the concerned parties for a collective fight against the vice,” he stated.
The CEO also noted that probation officers are equally important because they often interact with the criminals, and hence detect their changing behaviors very early.
“Probation officers are on the ground floor. They interact with the clients very frequently even in their houses. Once we equip them adequately, they will be in a position to rehabilitate the offenders,” he pointed out.
This training initiative follows closely behind another similar exercise aimed at senior judicial officers in Nairobi.
As per NACADA, more such training initiatives will soon be rolled out in other counties as part of the measures being undertaken to control drug abuse in Kenya.