The washrooms of the rehab centre shut down by Nacada on May 28, 2025./HANDOUT
In a sweeping move to uphold quality standards in addiction treatment, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) has shut down a rehabilitation centre in Kajiado East for gross non-compliance with health and safety regulations.
The closure followed a surprise inspection by a multi-agency team comprising Nacada's Compliance and Enforcement Unit and public health officers.
The facility, located in Birikani, was found to be operating in violation of several critical standards—despite earlier warnings and recommendations for improvement. What inspectors found was deeply troubling.
The washrooms of the rehab centre shut down by Nacada on May 28, 2025./HANDOUT
Isolation rooms were described as “unfit for human habitation,” with broken windows, peeling paint, and general disrepair throughout the premises.
Even more concerning were allegations that some clients had been detained at the facility beyond recommended treatment periods, without appropriate clinical assessments or notifying their families.
“This action sends a clear message—we will not allow facilities to jeopardize the recovery and dignity of vulnerable Kenyans,” said Nacada Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa.
“Our focus is not to punish, but to protect lives. Every rehabilitation centre must meet the standards that clients desperately need and deserve.”
The centre was immediately issued a “Notice Not to Use” order, barring its operation until all violations are corrected and the facility passes a fresh round of inspection.
One of the bedrooms of the rehab centre shut down by Nacada on May 28, 2025./HANDOUT
The closure is part of Nacada's ongoing nationwide crackdown aimed at improving the quality of rehabilitation services across the country.
The authority has ramped up surveillance and is urging families to confirm the accreditation status of any facility before admitting loved ones.
“As we intensify these operations across all counties, all non-compliant centres should consider themselves on notice,” said Dr. Omerikwa.
“The era of substandard rehabilitation services in Kenya is over.”
The public has been encouraged to report any questionable practices at rehabilitation centres via NACADA’s toll-free line, 1192, as the crackdown continues.
This bold step underscores the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Kenyans struggling with addiction—and ensuring they receive care that is not only effective but also safe and dignified.
