Parents urged to shield children from drugs during long holiday

Parents and guardians in Uasin Gishu County have been urged to closely monitor their children during the long school holiday to protect them from drugs, alcohol abuse and other harmful influences.

County Commissioner Eddisson Nyale said authorities have set up a multi-agency team to step up the fight against drug trafficking and the sale of illicit alcohol, particularly in Eldoret and its surroundings.

Mr Nyale said Eldoret's large youth population and its position along a major transport corridor make the town vulnerable to drug trafficking. He warned that those involved in the illegal trade would face the law.

"We have already put structures in place to ensure vehicles dealing in illicit trade will not penetrate through the city, and those arrested will face the full force of the law," he said.

The commissioner cautioned parents against neglecting their responsibilities. He said they should know their children's whereabouts, friends and activities, especially during the holiday, when learners spend more time away from school. Children left without proper guidance and supervision, he warned, could be exposed to drugs, alcohol and other harmful behaviour.

"Parenting is a fundamental responsibility that cannot be abdicated to teachers alone or to the state," Mr Nyale said.

He spoke at Comido School in Huruma estate, Eldoret, during a prayer day and preschool graduation ceremony. He also encouraged young people aged 18 and above to acquire national identity cards and register as voters.

Comido School director Bishop Boniface Simani echoed the commissioner's concerns. He urged parents to stay close to their children and ensure they return to school in January safe and healthy.

Bishop Simani said the school was releasing learners for the holiday in good condition and appealed to families to provide the care and protection they need at home. He also warned that drug use could undermine young people's future opportunities, including recruitment into jobs and participation in international programmes, where applicants may undergo medical examinations and drug screening.

Separately, Uasin Gishu Principal Immigration Officer Dorcas Okwayo urged schools to work closely with parents to help learners apply for passports early. She said securing passports in advance would allow children to take part in international exchange programmes and school trips without the delays that come with last-minute applications.