NACADA Bags Five Awards

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) reaffirmed its national leadership in public education, youth engagement, and regulatory excellence by securing five prestigious awards at the Mt. Kenya ASK Branch Show held in Nanyuki.

The Laikipia County Coordination Office was recognised for its vibrant and informative exhibition, which effectively highlighted NACADA’s mission to prevent and reduce alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya.

The authority clinched first prize in two prominent categories: Best Regulatory Authority and Corporation Stand, and Best Government Social Functions Stand.

Additionally, NACADA was awarded Second Prize in two other categories—Stand that Best Interprets the Current Show Theme (Education and/or Research), and Best National Government Ministry Stand. The Authority also secured Third Prize in the category of Best Stand in Youth Activities, Empowerment, and Capacity Building.

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga (centre) with NACADA officials receiving awards on behalf of the authority. /PHOTO

The awards were presented by the event’s Guests of Honour: Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu, and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha. The governors commended participating organisations for aligning with the show’s theme of “Innovation and Transformation,” and for their efforts in public education and service delivery.

Speaking after the ceremony, NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa praised the Laikipia team for their dedication and creativity in bringing the authority’s prevention strategies to life.

“These awards affirm our commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Kenyans through education, research, and collaboration. Our presence at forums like the ASK Show is vital in taking the message of prevention to the grassroots and engaging directly with the public, especially our youth,” said Dr. Omerikwa.

NACADA’s exhibition featured a range of impactful programming, including school-based drug prevention strategies, community empowerment initiatives, workplace wellness models, and multi-sector partnerships.

Key highlights included interactive demonstrations on the dangers of drug abuse, access to counselling services, and advocacy around national drug control policies, drawing significant interest from show attendees throughout the week.

Particularly notable was the recognition for youth empowerment, reflecting NACADA’s ongoing commitment to addressing substance abuse among young people—a demographic especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol. The authority’s outreach is designed to empower youth through education, mentorship, and access to prevention resources.

Through its continued participation in such public forums, NACADA reinforces its strategic mandate of promoting a drug-free Kenya by raising awareness, influencing policy, and collaborating with stakeholders across sectors.

“Our goal is clear—to create a society free from the harm of alcohol and drug abuse. Every award we receive is a reflection of the lives we’re working to transform," Omerikwa concluded.