The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) chairman Hassan Ole Naado has raised concern over the growing problem of drug and substance abuse in the country, warning that the issue continues to affect individuals, families and communities.
Naado spoke after being reappointed to the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) Board for a second term. He said he would use the opportunity to support efforts aimed at preventing drug abuse, educating communities and promoting rehabilitation for those affected.
Naado said drug and substance abuse remains a major challenge that could affect the future of communities if it is not addressed through coordinated efforts.
“Drugs and substance abuse continue to pose significant challenges and threats to the future of our communities,” Naado said.
He noted that the effects of substance abuse go beyond people who use drugs. According to Naado, the problem also affects families and social structures, creating challenges that can extend to the wider community.
He said NACADA was implementing measures focused on prevention, education and rehabilitation as part of efforts to address alcohol and drug abuse. He added that his second term on the board would give him an opportunity to work with other board members and stakeholders in supporting the authority’s mandate.
Naado also thanked President William Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen for reappointing him to the NACADA Board. He said he was prepared to continue serving Kenyans and supporting efforts to address the challenges linked to substance abuse.
“As I begin my second term on the Board of NACADA, I want to assure everyone that we will do everything possible within our mandate to meet the expectations set forth by the appointing authority,” he said.
The SUPKEM chairman said tackling drug and substance abuse requires cooperation between government institutions, religious leaders and communities. He stressed the importance of prevention and rehabilitation in responding to the problem.
Naado said religious leaders have an important role to play in educating communities and encouraging families to seek help for people affected by substance abuse. He also called for continued cooperation among different stakeholders to strengthen efforts aimed at preventing drug use and supporting affected individuals.
He said he would work with other board members, government agencies, religious leaders and communities during his second term to support measures aimed at reducing the impact of drug and substance abuse across the country.