NACADA programs cordinator Eunice Rubia(c) flanked by Eng. Agnes Wachie,Bungoma county CECM for Education(L) and senior provincial administration officials .
By Timothy Wekesa.
Bungoma, 19/12/2024.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has launched a campaign to combat drug and substance abuse during the Christmas season.
Speaking at the launch in Bungoma County, Eunice Rubia, the coordinator of programs for Bungoma and Busia counties, highlighted the dangers of drunk driving, emphasizing that it endangers both drivers and other road users.
She said NACADA aims to educate the public on the risks of using roads while intoxicated.
Rubia also urged the public to avoid exposing children to drugs during the festivities to ensure they return to school in good health.
Bungoma County has been identified among the top counties struggling with high rates of drug abuse, particularly due to the prevalence of illicit brews.
She warned of the harmful effects these substances have on public health, especially children.
According to the 2022 National Survey on the Status of Drugs and Substance Use in Kenya, the Western region, which includes Bungoma County, has the highest prevalence of drug and substance abuse in the country.
Approximately 26.4% of individuals aged 15 to 65 in the Western region use at least one drug or substance, a figure that significantly exceeds the national average of 16.7%.
Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance in the region, with a prevalence rate of 23.8%, compared to the national average of 12.2%.
This includes widespread consumption of illicit brews such as chang’aa and traditional liquors.
In contrast, tobacco use in the Western region is 8.3%, slightly below the national average of 8.6%, while cannabis use stands at 1.2%, compared to the national average of 1.9%.
Rubia pointed out that drug and substance abuse often leads to increased crime rates, including offenses related to both narcotics and prescription drugs.
She encouraged those struggling with addiction to seek help through NACADA offices or by calling the toll-free number 1192.
Bungoma County Secretary William Nasong’o, who attended the launch, praised the initiative, stating that public awareness is a key step in addressing substance abuse.
County Commissioner Thomas Sankei also underscored the link between drug abuse and the rising cases of gender-based violence in the region.
The campaign aims to reduce these alarming statistics and ensure a safer, healthier festive season for Bungoma residents.
Ends.
