KENYA: NACADA Closes Unlicensed Rehab Facility In Kiambu, Kenya Over Inhumane Conditions

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

Authorities in Kenya have closed down a rehabilitation facility in Githunguri, Kiambu County, following disturbing revelations of its poor state.

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), in collaboration with Public Health officials, conducted an unannounced inspection at Ahadi Rehabilitation Center and uncovered unacceptable living conditions and a lack of basic medical care.

The team discovered patients who were visibly unwell but not receiving any professional treatment.

The facility’s dormitories were overcrowded and filthy, with torn and stained mattresses. Bathrooms were unhygienic, and poor ventilation made the situation even worse.

Investigators were particularly alarmed by the state of the kitchen, where food was being stored and prepared in conditions unfit for consumption.

The lack of trained healthcare providers and counselors further exposed the vulnerability of individuals seeking help at the center.

Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, Chief executive officer of NACADA, condemned the facility’s operations, calling them a form of exploitation targeting those struggling with addiction.

He announced that more inspections would be carried out countrywide to identify and close similar illegal centers.

While acknowledging the national shortage of proper treatment facilities only 139 of 255 evaluated centers meet accreditation standards to serve over three million Kenyans with substance use disorders Dr. Omerikwa stressed that basic standards must never be compromised.

All individuals who were housed at Ahadi have since been moved to licensed treatment centers, and families have been informed to assist in the transition. NACADA is urging Kenyans to confirm the legitimacy of any rehab facility before seeking services and report suspicious centers through their toll-free number, 1192.

The crackdown is part of an ongoing response to the rise in unauthorized rehab institutions exploiting Kenya’s growing addiction crisis.