Kenya has unveiled its first-ever National Policy on the Prevention, Management, and Control of Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse.
The policy was launched on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, by Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi.
Murkomen said the policy marks a renewed commitment by the government to protect public health, restore dignity to victims of addiction, and secure the future of the nation’s youth.
“This is not a mere Policy Document,” Murkomen said. “It is a renewed commitment by the Government of Kenya to secure the health, safety, and future of every citizen, particularly our vibrant youth.”
The CS noted that alcohol and substance abuse remain a major threat to national security, public health, and youth empowerment. He linked the problem to increased crime, family breakdowns, and compromised community values.
“Our job at the Ministry of Interior and National Administration is to maintain law and order,” Murkomen said. “Alcohol, drugs and substance abuse directly undermine these core mandates.”
Murkomen applauded the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and other stakeholders for preparing the policy through a multi-sectoral approach. He also recognised the Institute of Legislative Affairs for supporting the process.
“This is not a one-man show nor a one-institution job. It needs us all,” he emphasised.
The policy focuses on four main pillars: law enforcement, community engagement, border control, and rehabilitation.
On law enforcement, Murkomen promised to crack down on illicit trafficking, manufacturing, and sale of unregulated alcohol and drugs.
“This Policy empowers us to intensify our operations against drug cartels, illicit brewers and peddlers who prey on the vulnerability of our people, including children,” he said.
He added that the National Police Service will work with intelligence agencies and specialised units to dismantle supply networks and bring offenders to justice.
“There will be no haven for criminals engaged in this destructive trade,” Murkomen warned.
He also underscored the role of community leadership in the fight. The ministry plans to empower local administrators with training and resources to lead prevention campaigns and identify high-risk areas.
“Our Administrative Structures are the bedrock of our Government,” Murkomen said. “They understand the local dynamics of substance abuse.”
Recognising Kenya’s vulnerability to drug trafficking due to its location, Murkomen said the government will strengthen surveillance at borders and ports of entry.
“My Ministry will strengthen border controls, enhance surveillance… and invest in advanced detection technologies,” he stated.
The policy also highlights the need for rehabilitation and reintegration of affected individuals. Murkomen said the ministry would support these efforts in and outside correctional facilities.
“Individuals struggling with addiction are not only rehabilitated, but are integrated back to society as productive citizens,” he said.
In closing, Murkomen urged all Kenyans to play their part in implementing the policy.
“We must forge a united front, driven by a common purpose to protect our children, empower our youth, and restore the dignity and potential of those ensnared by addiction.”
He pledged the ministry’s full support, saying: “We will dedicate the necessary resources, deploy our personnel strategically and work tirelessly to ensure that our communities are safe, drug-free and conducive to growth and development.”
