By Afrireport 
Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has announced a joint initiative between the national and county governments.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the fight against drug and substance abuse across the country.
The plan will ensure that at least one rehabilitation centre is established in every county. This move is intended to improve access to treatment. It will also enhance recovery services and long-term reintegration for affected individuals.
Speaking during a public engagement forum, Omollo said the initiative is part of a broader approach. This approach is coordinated to address the growing social challenges. It also tackles security challenges linked to drug and substance abuse.
He noted that addiction continues to strain families. It undermines productivity and fuels crime. This makes it a national concern that requires collaboration across all levels of government.
The Principal Secretary explained that many counties currently lack adequate rehabilitation facilities. This forces families to seek help far from home. They often rely on unregulated centres.
The government aims to ensure timely and affordable access to professional treatment by decentralising services. This strategy also seeks to improve oversight and standards of care.
According to Omollo, the planned centres will not only focus on detoxification and clinical treatment. They will also emphasize psychosocial support, skills development, and reintegration into society.
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He emphasised that recovery does not end at rehabilitation. He added that sustained support is critical to prevent relapse. Such support also helps individuals rebuild their lives.
County governments, he said, will play a key role by providing land, co funding infrastructure, and integrating rehabilitation services into existing health and social programmes.
The national government, on its part, will offer policy direction, technical support, and coordination with security and health agencies.
Omollo also called on communities, religious organisations, and civil society to support the initiative by reducing stigma around addiction and encouraging affected individuals to seek help.
He stressed that drug and substance abuse is a public health issue that should be addressed with compassion rather than punishment.
The announcement has been welcomed by health advocates and community leaders, who say the move could significantly reduce the burden of addiction if fully implemented.
As planning discussions with counties continue, expectations are rising that the initiative will mark a turning point in the country’s long-standing battle against drug and substance abuse.
