Langas Unites Against Drug Abuse as NACADA, Civil Society Champion Community Prevention
By Brenda Muriithi
In a vibrant and resolute show of community action, Langas estate in Eldoret stood as a beacon of hope and resilience during this year’s commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The event brought together residents, government agencies, and civil society organizations in a united front against the growing challenge of substance abuse.
The theme of the event, “Invasive Prevention, Break the Cycle”, echoed across the dusty but energized field at Langas, supported locally by the campaign slogan “Stop Organized Crime”. Led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in partnership with the Uasin Gishu Civil Society Network, the day highlighted prevention, rehabilitation, and the urgent need for community-led solutions.
Robert Mutehi, NACADA’s Uasin Gishu County Coordinator, emphasized the importance of local engagement in tackling addiction, particularly in high-risk areas like Langas.
“Drug and substance abuse has negatively affected our families, youth, and communities,” Mutehi said. “We are here to sensitize and educate the public, especially in Langas, which has been heavily impacted by alcoholism, drug abuse, and associated crime.”
He expressed concern about the rise in the use of inhalants among street children, urging for increased collaboration across sectors, including faith-based organizations and private rehabilitation centers, many of whom participated by offering free counseling and referral services.
Among the civil society leaders at the forefront was Helen Karithi of the Jikaze Foundation, who called for compassion alongside intervention.
“Langas is a city within a city — full of talent and promise,” she said. “We offer more than rehabilitation — we offer a shoulder to lean on, hope to hold on to, and pathways to purpose.”
Caren, from the Advocacy for Change Foundation, highlighted the often-overlooked struggles of women caught in cycles of addiction and domestic violence.
“Many women here are victims of domestic violence and family conflict. When we empower a woman, we strengthen a family,” she said, calling for gender-sensitive interventions and mental health support.
The event received strong backing from the Uasin Gishu County Government, which runs a free public rehabilitation facility in Moiben. The government’s support was mirrored by a presence of trained prevention officers, peer educators, and accredited private rehab centers working together to address the crisis holistically.
In a keynote address, County Commissioner Dr. Eddyson Nyale commended the people of Langas for their commitment to change:
“Today we have brought together the people of Langas — people of justice, people of peace, people who are ready to grow and live together. This is how we protect our future.”
But the message from the community was firm — action must go beyond symbolic events.“We have the best laws on paper,” said one youth participant. “It’s time to implement them fully and consistently.”
NACADA urged anyone affected by drug abuse to reach out through their toll-free line 1192 or visit their Uasin Gishu County office at KVDA Plaza for consultations and support.
As the event closed with performances and testimonies of recovery, the underlying message remained clear: every life saved is a step closer to a drug-free, hopeful future for Langas and beyond.
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