The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) marked this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (IDADA) with a strong call to focus on prevention as the first line of defense in addressing substance abuse.
The national celebrations, held in Embu County, brought together government officials, community leaders, youth, and anti-drug advocates under the theme: The evidence is clear: invest in prevention. Break the cycle. #StopOrganizedCrime. NACADA Board Chairman, Dr. Rev. Stephen Mairori, emphasized that addressing alcohol and drug abuse requires proactive efforts rather than simply reacting to its effects.
“Prevention is not only cost-effective, but it is also one of the most sustainable strategies in the fight against substance abuse,” said Rev. Mairori. “By educating youth, empowering families, and fostering supportive environments, we can stop addiction before it starts. Every shilling invested in prevention saves lives and reduces the burden on treatment and rehabilitation systems.”
The event, which was also attended by Eastern Regional Commissioner Paul Rotich, highlighted NACADA’s comprehensive approach to tackling substance abuse. Rotich praised NACADA’s community engagement and awareness campaigns, which he said had contributed to a decline in drug-related harm in the region.
“NACADA’s efforts align with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda by promoting healthy, productive communities,” Rotich noted. “By preventing drug abuse, we can secure a more robust workforce, reduce crime, and support national development.”
NACADA’s message reached all 47 counties, with local coordinators organizing marches, school sensitization programs, and stakeholder forums to raise awareness. From Mombasa to Turkana, the unified message was clear: investing in prevention today helps build a healthier and more prosperous future.
