NACADA stern warning to matatu ferrying students under influence
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has warned against the dangers of students travelling under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
The agency’s Chief Executive Antony Omerikwa, warned owners of Public Service Vehicles (PSV) against allowing learners under the influence of alcohol or drugs to board their vehicles noting that this posed pose significant risks to other road users.
The warning followed a video that went viral, showing what appeared like intoxicated students in uniform hanging dangerously from the windows of a matatu.
In one of the clips, a female passenger can be heard screaming in distress, fearing for the safety of everyone on board.
“No one should allow students to board public or private vehicles if they display signs of being under the influence of substances, because they not only endanger themselves but also poses a significant risk to other road users,” said Omerikwa in a statement.
He called on members of the public to report intoxicated drivers and other transport operators to the relevant authorities.
“Private and public vehicles can become hotspots for alcohol and drug use and distribution, especially during this period,” Omerikwa noted. He highlighted the pressures and risks that students face both within and outside the school environment, which can contribute to substance abuse.