Kenya Steps Up Efforts to Fight Drug Abuse

The Kenyan government is intensifying its fight against drug and substance abuse through a multi-pronged strategy led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA). In a landmark move, NACADA unveiled its 2023–2027 Strategic Plan, which aims to strengthen enforcement, increase demand-reduction efforts, and expand rehabilitation and recovery services.
To make treatment more accessible, the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) has been expanded to cover outpatient services, cessation, and rehabilitation of substance abuse disorders. Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa said the move will eliminate financial barriers for those seeking help, allowing more people—especially the youth—to access professional recovery services.
At the county level, Uasin Gishu County has launched a joint action plan with NACADA and other national agencies to control alcohol and drug abuse. The plan includes zoning restrictions on liquor outlets, scaling up rehabilitation centres, and working with community stakeholders and schools to prevent substance use among young people.
Meanwhile, NACADA is also conducting a crackdown on unlicensed rehab centres. In 2025, it shut down facilities in Kiambu and Meru counties after uncovering appalling conditions—such as lack of medical staff and poor hygiene—which posed serious risks to recovering addicts.
These combined efforts mark a significant escalation in Kenya’s response to the drug abuse crisis, emphasizing both prevention and regulated, dignified recovery.