The County Government of Uasin Gishu is ramping up its campaign against alcohol and drug abuse, targeting young people through community sensitization initiatives.

On Wednesday, officers from the county’s Alcoholic Drinks Control Board (ADCB), in collaboration with Blessed Hands Group (Illula), National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and Kenya Forest Service, conducted an outreach programme in Illula, engaging more than 100 youths.

Speaking on behalf of ADCB Director Koiya Maiyo, Chief Program Officer Beatrice Tanui said the county will sustain the awareness drives to curb rising cases of substance abuse among young people.

She noted that the initiative aims to equip youths with knowledge and life skills to help them make informed decisions and avoid harmful behaviors.

Blessed Hands Group Chairperson Lilian Chepkuto raised concern over increasing drug use among idle youths, particularly around an unused dam in the area.

She said the group, in partnership with stakeholders, is working to redirect affected youths into income-generating activities such as fishing and tree planting to promote self-reliance and reduce vulnerability to substance abuse.

The sensitization exercise forms part of the county’s broader strategy to address drug and alcohol abuse through prevention, community engagement, and economic empowerment.