The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s fight against substance abuse with the graduation of a cohort of trained officers specializing in working with detection dogs.https://www.facebook.com/100067867727102/posts/pfbid0AQp8pw3WPngKuSK9oeW3736HNTcAQYDoyTjQp3i9fBf6gdPajb2DZirsT2AZFrrml/?app=fbl
The training aims to strengthen the country’s capacity to combat drug trafficking and abuse through enhanced detection techniques.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa emphasized the importance of the training, describing it as more than a ceremonial achievement. “This is not just a certificate; it is a critical investment in national security and public health,” he said.
The officers underwent intensive, hands-on training focused on the effective deployment of K9 units to detect narcotics in high-risk areas such as ports, airports, and border crossings. The program also included modules on ethical handling of animals, legal frameworks, and inter-agency coordination.
Dr. Omerikwa noted that the integration of detection dogs into anti-drug operations would significantly enhance early identification and interception of illicit substances before they enter Kenyan communities. He added that the program reflects NACADA’s commitment to innovative and sustainable strategies in the war on drugs.
The initiative has been welcomed by law enforcement and public health stakeholders alike, with many praising it as a proactive step toward disrupting the drug supply chain.
It also aligns with the government’s broader agenda to address addiction through both prevention and enforcement.
As the newly trained officers prepare to deploy across the country, the hope is that their specialized skills — and their canine partners — will play a pivotal role in making Kenyan streets safer and drug-free. NACADA plans to expand the program in future phases to reach more regions and institutions.
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