Nyandarua embraces community approach to stop alcoholism

Nyandarua has embraced a community-based approach to fight the prevalence of alcoholism, drugs and substance abuse in the County.

Stakeholders led by governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha (pictured) agreed that addiction is a social problem that can only be solved through the community.

The governor promised to lease land for those who quit drinking so that they can grow Napier grass which they can sell as fodder to livestock owners.

He also announced a raft of goodies to benefit those who quit drinking in the County. These include Sh300,000 for each of the 25 electoral wards to help groups of former addicts start income generating ventures.

Community based

Chege Thiari of Hope Valley Family Institute said community based approach in fighting alcoholism, drugs and substance abuse is the best since it reduces stigmatisation of victims.

“Therapeutic gatherings are held within the communities where those seeking to kick out the problem get encouraged by counsellors and those who have already succeeded in quitting the habit,” Chege said.
Speaking during the gathering held at the Ol Kalou Arboretum, Kiarie said alcohol addiction has been a serious problem among county employees adding that his administration has established a unit headed by Jane Maru for counselling staff who have drinking problems.

Martin Ngugi is one of the county employees who has succeeded in quitting alcohol. He said he spent close to Sh1 million after being admitted in hospital for 142 days undergoing treatment and rehabilitation.

Father James Mwangi said the community based fight against alcoholism has gained traction in Njabini parish where he serves since many people fail to seek help due to the expensive prices at the privately-run rehabilitation centres.

Kinangop youth are being stopped from swarming vehicles carrying politicians because they use the handouts given to buy alcohol.

Some of those who have succeeded in quitting addiction gave moving tales of how they suffered because of alcohol.

Nominated MCA, Patience Manga said she became homeless at a young age because her grandfather was sitting in a bar when he sold the 24-acre family land in Kinangop, leading to their eviction.

Denis Wanjala of St Martin, a Nyahururu Catholic Diocese social entity, said they have so far helped 180 people quit drinking through an out-patient rehabilitation programme that runs twice a year.