Mp Urges Garissa Drug Trade End

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East African Legislative Assembly MP Falhada Dekow has asked those involved in the trade to quit and instead turn to activities that uplift the young people.

She said drug barons, traffickers and suppliers operating in Northeastern should abandon the illicit trade and instead support development and economic empowerment of youth.

She spoke at Kunaso Grounds in Waberi ward within Garissa Township constituency during the finals of the Eid Cup tournament—an event she sponsored through her Falde Foundation.

The lawmaker condemned the destruction caused by drug abuse, particularly among the youth in Garissa county.

Among the most commonly abused substances in Garissa are bhang, cocaine, shisha, muguka and miraa.

Bhang is often smuggled from Ethiopia to Nairobi before finding its way into local markets, contributing to widespread consumption among young people.

The alarming situation has seen Garissa listed among counties affected by substance abuse by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA).

Its against the backdrop of this worrying statistics that the MP urged those involved in the drug trade to reconsider their actions and contribute positively to society.

“It is deeply regrettable to see a few individuals enrich themselves by destroying the lives of thousands of young people. Their actions are not only morally wrong but also unacceptable in the eyes of God,” Falhada said.

She said progress in addressing unemployment, idleness and youth empowerment through sports and talent nurturing will remain limited if drug trafficking continues unchecked.

“Even as we gather here to address issues such as unemployment and to nurture youth talent, all our efforts will be in vain if there are individuals determined to profit from selling drugs and harmful substances to our youth,” she added.

The former senator said drug abuse has significantly contributed to rising social challenges, including insecurity, sexual violence, domestic abuse, and school dropouts.

She called for concerted efforts to address the problem.

Iman who was accompanied by Waberi MCA Abubakar Sugow and local football federation officials also called on leaders to invest more in youth empowerment through sports, noting that many talents remain untapped.

“As leaders, we must walk the talk when it comes to empowering our youth. There is so much we can do, both individually and collectively, to address challenges like the high level of unemployment,” she said.

“Personally, I have chosen to lead by example through my foundation by promoting youth talent and strengthening the bonds that unite our community,” she added.

The lawmaker urged young to shun drugs and remain focused on building their futures. She warned that substance abuse only leads to ruin. At the same time, she encouraged them to actively participate in the democratic process by voting for leaders who will positively impact their lives.

MCA Sugow reiterated the need for leaders and government institutions to prioritise youth development, citing their critical role in nation-building.

He said drug abuse is a big concern, linking it directly to the rise in social vices within the community. Sugow also cautioned young people against being misused by self-serving politicians, particularly as the country approaches the next general election.