Government To Set Up Rehab Centers In Each County

In a significant move to combat addiction, the Kenyan government plans to establish treatment and rehabilitation centers in all 47 counties. This initiative aims to provide accessible and affordable support for individuals struggling with drug and alcohol abuse.

The announcement came on Wednesday, March 27th, 2024, by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki. Kindiki emphasized the importance of addressing both the supply and demand sides of addiction. These new centers will focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, offering a crucial lifeline for people seeking recovery.

The National Government will partner with county governments to ensure each center provides affordable, publicly funded services. Kindiki cited the Miritini Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre in Mombasa as a model for this nationwide expansion.

The Miritini facility, expected to cost Ksh1.3 billion upon completion, will offer treatment, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs. These programs will not only address addiction but also equip patients with valuable skills like masonry, tailoring, and engineering. Additionally, the center will provide start-up capital to help individuals build sustainable livelihoods after recovery.

Kindiki’s visit to Miritini was joined by officials from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and Mombasa County security personnel. This collaborative approach highlights the government’s commitment to tackling addiction with a multi-pronged strategy.

This nationwide expansion of treatment centers holds great promise for improving access to addiction recovery resources. It represents a significant step forward in the fight against drug and alcohol abuse in Kenya.