President Ruto Directs Nationwide Establishment of Rehabilitation Centres in Fight Against Drug and Alcohol Abuse

President William Ruto has announced a comprehensive national strategy to tackle the growing menace of alcohol and drug abuse, including the establishment of rehabilitation centres in all 47 counties across Kenya.

The directive came during a high-level multi-agency meeting chaired by the President on January 7, 2026, at State House in Nairobi. The meeting brought together senior government officials and security leaders to accelerate measures addressing substance abuse as both a public health crisis and a national security threat.

In his remarks, President Ruto emphasized the need for a whole-of-government approach that integrates prevention, enforcement, treatment, and recovery efforts. He highlighted the rollout of decentralised rehabilitation facilities nationwide, in close collaboration with county governments and the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

Specialised rehabilitation services will also be strengthened at national referral hospitals to provide advanced treatment, counseling, and recovery support. Additionally, the Social Health Authority (SHA) will expand its coverage to finance care, streamline referral processes, and improve long-term outcomes for individuals struggling with addiction.

To bolster enforcement, additional officers will be deployed to the Anti-Narcotics Unit, equipped with specialised training, vehicles, equipment, and logistical support for operations across the country. Multi-agency teams will be stationed at five key border entry points to disrupt drug trafficking networks and organised crime syndicates.

President Ruto further instructed that necessary legal and operational reforms be fast-tracked, with the relevant framework finalised within 10 days to enhance coordination, enforcement, and accountability among agencies.

The meeting included key figures such as Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspectors General Eliud Lang’at and Gilbert Masengeli, Directorate of Criminal Investigations Director Mohammed Amin, NACADA Chairman Stephen Nairobi, and NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa.

This renewed campaign builds on commitments outlined in the President's New Year Address, underscoring the government's determination to protect communities, families, and the nation's future from the devastating effects of substance abuse.