Functions Of NACADA -National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse

April 11, 2023 Majira Media

Alcohol and drug abuse is a significant social and public health challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide, including Kenya. Recognizing the need for a coordinated response to this issue, the Kenyan government established the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA). NACADA is a statutory body tasked with the responsibility of implementing policies, strategies, and programs aimed at preventing and controlling alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya.

In this article, we will provide an overview of NACADA, including its functions, management team, and contact information, highlighting the critical role it plays in addressing alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya and promoting a healthy and drug-free society.

NACADA Background History

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) is a government agency established in Kenya with the mandate of coordinating and leading the fight against alcohol and drug abuse in the country. NACADA was established in 2012 under the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse Act (NACADA Act) with the aim of reducing alcohol and drug abuse among the Kenyan population.

NACADA’s mission is to provide leadership, policy direction, and coordination of all efforts in the prevention, control, and management of alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya. The authority is responsible for developing policies, strategies, and programs to prevent and control alcohol and drug abuse, as well as promoting awareness and education on the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse to individuals, families, and communities.

NACADA operates under the guidance of a Board of Directors appointed by the President of Kenya, and it is headed by a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) who is responsible for the day-to-day management of the authority. The authority works in close collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and communities, to implement evidence-based interventions to prevent and reduce alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya.

Some of the key functions of NACADA include coordinating and monitoring the implementation of national policies and strategies on alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control, conducting research and data collection on alcohol and drug abuse, promoting the development of treatment and rehabilitation services, and providing technical assistance and support to county governments in implementing alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control programs.

NACADA also conducts public awareness campaigns, community mobilization, and education programs to raise awareness about the risks and consequences of alcohol and drug abuse, and promotes healthy lifestyles and alternatives to alcohol and drug use. The authority also engages in advocacy efforts to promote policy and legislative changes aimed at reducing alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya.

Functions of National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in Kenya has several key functions aimed at preventing and controlling alcohol and drug abuse in the country. These functions include:

Policy Development and Coordination: NACADA is responsible for developing and coordinating the implementation of national policies, strategies, and programs on alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control. This includes developing evidence-based interventions and guidelines for addressing alcohol and drug abuse at the national level, and coordinating efforts among various stakeholders to ensure a unified approach in combating the issue.
Research and Data Collection: NACADA conducts research and data collection to generate information and evidence on alcohol and drug abuse trends, patterns, and impacts in Kenya. This includes conducting surveys, studies, and assessments to understand the prevalence, risk factors, and consequences of alcohol and drug abuse, and using the findings to inform policy and programmatic interventions.
Treatment and Rehabilitation Services: NACADA promotes the development of treatment and rehabilitation services for individuals struggling with alcohol and drug abuse. This includes supporting the establishment of treatment centers, facilities, and programs that provide counseling, therapy, and other interventions to help individuals recover from substance use disorders.
Awareness and Education: NACADA conducts public awareness campaigns, community mobilization, and education programs to raise awareness about the risks and consequences of alcohol and drug abuse. This includes developing and disseminating educational materials, organizing public events, and using various media channels to promote messages on prevention, early intervention, and harm reduction related to alcohol and drug abuse.
Technical Assistance and Support: NACADA provides technical assistance and support to county governments, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders involved in alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control efforts. This includes capacity building, training, and mentoring on evidence-based approaches, program planning, monitoring and evaluation, and resource mobilization.
Advocacy and Policy Change: NACADA engages in advocacy efforts to promote policy and legislative changes aimed at reducing alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya. This includes working with relevant stakeholders to advocate for policy reforms, regulations, and legislation that can strengthen alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control measures, and ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations.
Monitoring and Evaluation: NACADA is responsible for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control programs at the national and county levels. This includes conducting regular assessments, reviews, and evaluations to assess the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of interventions, and using the findings to inform programmatic improvements and decision-making.
Capacity Building and Training: NACADA conducts capacity building and training programs for various stakeholders involved in alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control efforts. This includes providing training to healthcare professionals, law enforcement agencies, educators, community leaders, and other relevant personnel to enhance their knowledge, skills, and competencies in addressing alcohol and drug abuse.
Partnership and Collaboration: NACADA fosters partnerships and collaborations with government agencies, civil society organizations, private sector entities, and other stakeholders to promote a multi-sectoral approach in addressing alcohol and drug abuse. This includes establishing networks, coalitions, and collaborations to leverage collective efforts, share resources, and exchange best practices in alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control.
Rehabilitation and Reintegration: NACADA supports the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals recovering from alcohol and drug abuse. This includes facilitating access to aftercare services, such as counseling, vocational training, and social support, to help individuals reintegrate into society and lead productive lives after recovery.
Prevention Programs: NACADA develops and implements evidence-based prevention programs that target various populations, including children, youth, women, and vulnerable groups, to reduce the risk of alcohol and drug abuse. This includes school-based prevention programs, community-based initiatives, and targeted interventions for high-risk populations.
Monitoring and Regulation of Alcohol and Drug Marketing and Sales: NACADA monitors and regulates the marketing and sales of alcohol and drugs in Kenya to ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations. This includes monitoring the advertising, promotion, and sale of alcohol and drugs, and taking appropriate regulatory measures to prevent the marketing and sale of alcohol and drugs to underage individuals or in violation of existing regulations.
International Cooperation: NACADA engages in international cooperation and collaboration with other countries and international organizations to share knowledge, best practices, and resources in addressing alcohol and drug abuse. This includes participating in regional and international forums, conferences, and initiatives on alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control.
Crisis Intervention and Response: NACADA provides crisis intervention and response services for individuals and communities affected by alcohol and drug abuse. This includes emergency helplines, counseling services, and referral to appropriate support services for individuals and families facing crises related to alcohol and drug abuse.

NACADA Board Of Management

The board is composed of appointed and ex-officio members who represent various sectors and stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and individuals with expertise in alcohol and drug abuse prevention and control.

The composition of NACADA’s Board of Directors may include the following key positions:

Chairperson – The Chairperson of the Board provides leadership and presides over board meetings. The Chairperson is responsible for ensuring that the board operates effectively and fulfills its mandate. The current chairman of NACADA is Rev. Dr. Stephen K. Mairori
Board Members – The Board Members are appointed based on their expertise and experience in relevant fields, such as health, law enforcement, education, social work, and community development. They contribute to the strategic direction and decision-making of NACADA and provide oversight to ensure that the authority achieves its goals and objectives.
Ex-officio Members – Ex-officio members are appointed by virtue of their positions in other government agencies or organizations, such as the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and the National Police Service. They provide input and guidance based on their respective areas of expertise and responsibilities.

NACADA Leadership

The leadership team of the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) in Kenya consists of the following key positions:

Mr. Victor Okioma – Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Mr. Okioma is the CEO of NACADA, providing overall leadership and direction to the authority. He oversees the implementation of NACADA’s policies, strategies, and programs, and represents the authority in external engagements.
Ms. Irungu Nyakera – Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO): Ms. Nyakera serves as the DCEO of NACADA, supporting the CEO in providing leadership and direction to the authority. She may also oversee specific departments or divisions within NACADA, as assigned by the CEO, and provides support in the absence of the CEO.

NACADA Contacts

Physical Address: NSSF Building 18th Floor,Eastern Wing, Block A
Postal Address: P.O. Box 10774-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
Monday to Friday – 0800hrs – 1700hrs .
Weekends and Public Holidays – Closed
Telephone: +254 202721997
Toll-Free Helpline: 1192
Email: info@nacada.go.ke
Website: http://www.nacada.go.ke/
Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nacadakenya/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/nacada_kenya YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/NACADAKenya