Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen warned drug traffickers and promised firm action against criminal networks distributing drugs in Kenya. Speaking at the launch of the Status of Drugs and Substance Use Among University Students in Kenya report, he stressed that drug abuse threatens national security and harms young people.
Murkomen ordered security agencies to intensify their crackdown on drug traffickers. He vowed that the government would pursue and punish offenders. He specifically tasked the Anti-Narcotics Unit under the Directorate of Criminal Investigations with enforcing drug laws.
The report revealed alarming substance abuse rates among university students. It found that alcohol is the most accessible substance, with 87.3% of students able to obtain it. Cigarettes followed at 64.4%, while shisha ranked third at 41.2%. Murkomen called these findings a wake-up call and urged students to choose their friends wisely.
It also revealed that 66.4% of students get drugs from friends, with some involved in distribution. Murkomen urged parents to monitor their children’s friendships and social activities more closely.
He expressed concern about drug sales on social media, especially targeting university students. He warned that the government would not tolerate online platforms being used for drug abuse. “Crime is crime—whether online or offline,” he stated.
Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating illicit brews and harmful substances. He ordered National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) and multi-agency teams to enforce President William Ruto’s directive on eradicating illegal drugs.
He also called on university administrators to strengthen prevention programs, create drug-free social spaces, and promote wellness activities. Murkomen stressed that the fight against drug abuse is about protecting Kenya’s future.
