Ukambani governors have supported the national government's war on illicit liquor and drugs.
Governors Julius Malombe (Kitui), Wavinya Ndeti (Machakos) and Mutula Kilonzo Jnr (Makueni) said miraa and bhang have become a menace to many young people.
They spoke in Makueni on Thursday.
Mutula Jnr said Makueni has put in place measures to make it next to impossible for anyone to grow miraa in the region.
The governor said the national government should remain vigilant at the Nairobi-Mombasa highway is the main entry of hard drugs.
He said the county has invested in growing talent, especially sports and athletics, to keep young people away from drugs and crime.
Wavinya said Mavoko, Kangundo, Matungulu and Tala markets are most affected by drugs and crime.
She said her administration has engaged youth to clean up towns so they can earn an income.
The county government has established Machakos youth service to train 1,000 youths on various skills such as plumbing, masonry and agricultural courses.
Wavinya said the trained youth will be supported to start small businesses.
Malombe said, "Young people need a boost to realise their potential and we are ready to assist."
