Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki when he appeared before the Senate yesterday
By PSCU
Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Security, Prof. Kithure Kindiki yesterday appeared begore the Senate where he responded to growing worries over the misuse of Ketamine, often referred to as “Kete”, especially prevalent in the Mt. Kenya region.
This concern was brought to the floor by Senator John Kinyua, who questioned the steps the government was taking against the drug’s misuse and the creation of rehabilitation centres for the victims.
Prof. Kindiki emphasized the difference between “Kete” – a blend of heroin combined with various ingredients like Bhang, Miraa, Taptap, and Paracetamol – and Ketamine, a distinct prescription medication known for its hallucinogenic effects.
“Recent data highlighted an alarming trend; there was an increasing confiscation of ‘Kete’ in several counties, with Nyeri, Kiambu, and Murang’a recording significant seizures from January to June 2022,” he informed the Senate.
Yet, he also expressed concerns regarding the absence of clear data on Ketamine misuse in the Central region.
Understanding the gravity of the “Kete” misuse problem, the government has taken numerous actions.
These steps encompass launching public educational and awareness campaigns that address the repercussions of drug consumption, targeting various groups from schools to workplaces. They’ve also facilitated training for addiction experts in rehab centres to apply evidence-backed interventions, set up National Standards for Treatment and Rehabilitation for those suffering from Substance-Use-Disorder, and created inspection guidelines for rehab facilities.
These facilities are now subject to accreditation, guidance, and potential closure if they fail to meet the given standards.
To directly counter Ketamine misuse, the government has amplified public education in partnership with the Ministry of Health, focusing on the drug’s risks.
They have restricted its over-the-counter sale without suitable prescriptions and instituted stringent penalties for any health regulation violations concerning the drug.
On the rehabilitation front, Prof. Kindiki noted, “the National Government has formed partnerships with numerous County Governments to establish or equip rehabilitation facilities. Some of these facilities include Koiwa Treatment Centre in Bomet, Kiamwasi Treatment Centre in Kisii, and Kakamega County Rehab in Kakamega.”
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Kindiki reinforced the government’s dedication to confronting drug abuse and guaranteeing the provision of essential support and rehabilitation for the affected populace.
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