The show, which took place at the Kabiru-ini Showground, attracted thousands of attendees, including high-level dignitaries.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) emerged victorious at this year’s Nyeri Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Show, where its stand was recognised as the best in the Youth Empowerment and Advocacy category.
According to a press release sent to Viral Tea, the show, which took place at the Kabiru-ini Showground, attracted thousands of attendees, including high-level dignitaries.
“NACADA’s impressive stand highlighted its ongoing efforts to educate the public, particularly the youth, about the dangers of drug and substance abuse while providing information on available resources for rehabilitation and recovery,” read the statement in part.
The Authority praised its interactive exhibits, informative sessions, and youth-centred programs, stating that they captured the attention of the show’s visitors and judges alike.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua interacting with a NACADA official at the NACADA ASK Nyeri show stand with CEO Anthony Omerikwa looking on (left). /NACADA KENYA
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, visited NACADA’s stand, accompanied by Nyeri County Governor, Mutahi Kahiga. Gachagua commended NACADA for its critical role in addressing alcohol and drug abuse among young Kenyans, emphasizing the need for continued youth empowerment and advocacy.
“In recognition of their outstanding efforts, NACADA was awarded a trophy for their exceptional work in promoting youth empowerment. The trophy was presented by the Deputy President, a testament to the Authority’s impactful presence at the event,” added the statement.
NACADA CEO, Dr Anthony Omerikwa, expressed gratitude for the recognition, reaffirming the Authority’s commitment to the fight against alcohol and drug abuse and its dedication to empowering the nation’s youth.
About NACADA
A Gazette Notice dated April 26, 2001, established NACADA to undertake a public education and awareness campaign against drug abuse, especially among youth in schools and other institutions of higher learning.
The Authority operated as such until May 2006 when the late former President Mwai Kibaki established an Advisory Board and appointed its Chairman through the Kenya Gazette Notice No. 3749 of 19th May 2006.
Through a Legal Notice No. 140 published in the Kenya Gazette Supplement on 29th June 2007, the Agency was transformed into the National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Authority (NACADAA) under the State Corporations Act (Cap 446 of the Laws of Kenya) to coordinate a multi-sectoral campaign to prevent, control and mitigate the impact of alcohol and drug abuse in the country. In 2010, the Authority’s mandate was expanded to include the implementation of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act 2010.
In July 2012, the Authority was again transformed to NACADA having been firmly established under an Act of Parliament and its mandate was expanded and elaborated in the NACADA Act, 2012.
The Authority works with schools, workplaces, colleges, universities, technical institutions, county governments, ministries, parastatals, national government administrative offices, faith-based institutions, CBOs, NGOs, self-help groups as well as individuals interested in a society free from alcohol and drug abuse.
National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse CEO Anthony Omerikwa during the NACADA strategic plan launch 2023-2027 on June 19, 2024. /PHOTO