Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has asked national government administration officers (NGAOs) not to relent in the fight against drugs and illicit brews.

The DP warned against laxity, saying illegal alcohol was slowly creeping back to communities and might reverse the gains made by the campaign.

’No turning back’

Speaking on Friday when he attended the burial service for former Nacada CEO Victor Okioma in Nyabomo, Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, Gachagua (pictured)said there was no turning back in the fight against illegal substances.

“We started well in the war against drugs and illicit brews and there was significant progress. I want to ask Nacada and all our administrators not to the drop ball and remained focused,” said the DP, who has been spearheading the battle nationally.

“Let us continue to fight the drugs and illicit brews as we did before and now, importantly, in the memory of Okioma.”

Gachagua praised Okioma, who was Nacada chief executive between 2017 and 2023, for his steadfastness and focus in leading efforts, together with other stakeholders, to rid the country of the menace.

Sacrifice for nation

He said he should be emulated by those now overseeing the anti-drug-abuse campaign.

“I salute Okioma for his distinguished service to the nation, for his sacrifices for the good of the nation. I salute him for the good work he did at Nacada. He was a hardworking man whose excellent work spoke for itself. I appeal to Nacada to uphold the legacy of Okioma,” he said.

Meanwhile, he encouraged administrators to remain true to their jobs, saying they have the support and respect of President William Ruto and the national government.

“I respect the NGAOs for their service to this country. The national administration is an important pillar for any government,” he stated.

The DP said the President had tasked administrators with registering farmers and they had done so within a short time.

“This is a good arm of government that needs to be anchored well to work for Kenyans,” Gachagua said.

“The officers registered six million farmers in less than two weeks and at far less cost than stated by consultants.”

– DPCS