Isiolo leaders have called for a united front in the battle against drug and substance abuse, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts among the public, administrators, the police, and the judiciary. Speaking during a week-long football tournament organized by the National Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) and the office of the County Member of Parliament Mumina Bonaya, local leaders stressed that teamwork is key to tackling the growing menace.
MP Mumina Bonaya highlighted that while Kenya has sufficient laws to address drug abuse, the challenge lies in their effective implementation. She urged young people to engage in constructive activities like sports, particularly during the holidays, to avoid falling victim to drugs.
NACADA Coordinator for Isiolo County, Alice Mwangi, explained that the football tournament was part of a larger effort to sensitize local youths about the dangers of drug abuse. She emphasized that prevention is a top priority, with the aim of keeping young people away from drugs before they become addicted. Alice also revealed plans to collaborate with the county government to establish an outpatient space at the County Referral Hospital to support those seeking help to overcome addiction.
Isiolo Sub County DCC, Christopher Siele, underscored the importance of law enforcement in combating drug abuse. He noted that the National Government Administration Officers and police are under strict instructions to conduct regular operations in the area, arresting and prosecuting offenders. However, he expressed concern over Isiolo’s vulnerability due to its strategic position as a transport corridor linking Kenya to neighboring countries like Ethiopia and Somalia, making it a hotspot for drug trafficking.
Area elder, Omar Godana, called on the judiciary to impose harsher sentences on drug offenders, as light penalties have emboldened repeat offenders.
The football tournament, featuring eight teams from Isiolo’s wards, culminated in a thrilling final where Grevy’s Zebra from Ngaremara ward triumphed over Bilbao FC from Bulapesa ward. The winning team was awarded Kshs 100,000 and a trophy.
Youth participants appealed for more such events, highlighting the importance of providing them with platforms to showcase their talents while keeping them constructively engaged during holiday seasons.
