The County Government of Uasin Gishu has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against alcohol and substance abuse, warning that the growing problem continues to pose serious health and social challenges, particularly among young people.

Speaking on Friday during the graduation ceremony of 14 clients who completed treatment and rehabilitation at the Uasin Gishu County Rehabilitation and Treatment Centre in Moiben, Director of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Board (ADCB) Koiya Arap Maiyo said the County would not relent in its efforts to protect residents from the devastating effects of alcohol and substance abuse.

Maiyo said the County Government, through the ADCB, has continued to strengthen prevention, enforcement, treatment, rehabilitation and aftercare programmes as part of a comprehensive strategy to address the problem.

He reaffirmed the County’s commitment to supporting individuals affected by substance abuse and providing them with an opportunity to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.

“This programme, which is offered free of charge, is courtesy of Governor Jonathan Bii, and we must ensure that every beneficiary receives the necessary support to recover, regain their dignity and become productive members of society,” said Maiyo.

He encouraged families to play an active role in the recovery process, noting that rehabilitation is more effective when clients receive consistent support from their families and communities.

Director of Chebororwa Agricultural Training Centre (ATC), Wilbur Mutai, emphasized the importance of rehabilitation clients visiting the centre, saying such exposure provides them with practical knowledge and skills that can support their reintegration into society.

Mutai noted that engaging in agricultural activities and learning various income-generating skills can help the clients develop self-reliance, rebuild their confidence and explore sustainable livelihood opportunities after completing their rehabilitation programme.

Partners attending the graduation ceremony commended the County Government for investing in rehabilitation and treatment services, urging residents to embrace early intervention and seek professional help for individuals struggling with alcohol and substance abuse.

Peter Kipya, a parent of one of the graduands, lauded the County Government for establishing the rehabilitation programme and providing free treatment services.

Kipya said the programme had given his family renewed hope, adding that the support and guidance provided at the centre had played a significant role in his child’s recovery.

The graduation marked another milestone in the County Government’s ongoing efforts to combat alcohol and substance abuse while restoring hope and transforming the lives of affected individuals and their families.