In the Rift Valley region, more than one million individuals grapple with addiction to alcohol, drugs, and various substances, with an additional 400,000 urgently requiring rehabilitation services, according to Reverend Stephen Mairori, Chairman of the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).
These concerning figures were disclosed during the inauguration of a Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre at Koiwa Hospital in Bomet County, officiated by Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, the Spouse of the Deputy President.
“In Rift Valley alone, over 1 million use alcohol and other forms of drugs.
Out of these numbers, about 400,000 need rehabilitation.
That’s a very large number,” emphasized Rev. Mairori during the launch.
Pastor Dorcas, acknowledging a 22% prevalence of drugs and substance abuse in Bomet County, expressed her concern, stating, “I understand there is a 22% prevalence of drugs in this county.
That is very bad, and if we don’t do something Governor (Hillary Barchok), this county will have a big problem.”
To address this pressing issue, the Spouse of the Deputy President, in collaboration with various stakeholders, initiated a screening exercise to identify individuals in need of rehabilitation services.
Notably, 37 men from Konoin, 56 from Sotik, 72 from Chepalungu, and 41 each from Bomet East and Central have expressed a desire to undergo rehabilitation.
The newly launched facility at Koiwa Hospital has already admitted its first cohort of 100 men, who will undergo a three-month treatment and rehabilitation program.
Pastor Dorcas urged all counties to follow suit and establish similar facilities to secure the nation’s future.
Governor Hillary Barchok pledged support for the program, emphasizing its broader impact beyond Bomet County.
He commended Pastor Dorcas for her compassionate approach towards individuals struggling with addiction, highlighting the importance of love over condemnation.
In addition to her efforts in combating substance abuse, Pastor Dorcas has been actively involved in various initiatives, including the establishment of health villages, signing MoUs with county governments, and launching the Dorcas Rigathi Foundation Centre in Nyandarua County.
The initiative also supports President William Ruto’s tree-planting goal, with plans to train youth in technical courses at the facilities.
Addressing the issue of illicit brews, Pastor Dorcas issued a stern warning, declaring, “Those selling poison to our children must close those businesses and get something else to do.”
Governor Barchok and County Speaker Cosmas Korir expressed their support for the initiative, emphasizing its significance for the entire country.
Meanwhile, County First Lady Saline Barchok praised the initiative for its positive impact on saving the lives of young girls.
In a separate statement, Pastor Dorcas voiced her stance on the LGBTQ debate, asserting that Africa is not ready for such discussions.
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