Uasin Gishu County Youth Director Stephen Kemoi has told youths in the county to completely shun drug and substance abuse and instead take part in activities that will boost their growth and development.
Speaking to journalists in his office on Thursday, Mr Kemoi said that alcoholism is high among youths in the county despite the crackdown on illicit liquor and unlicensed bar operators.
"Many young people have resulted to drinking and abusing drugs," he said.
The Uasin Gishu youth official said that alcohol abuse has rendered many young people "useless and irrelevant".
He noted that cases of addiction are also high in the county.
“Our youths must completely shun alcohol and other drugs if they want to have any bright future,” he said.
The official noted that alcohol abuse was common among college and university students and called on university managements to put in place laws that will deter their students from engaging in drug abuse.
He however observed slight reduction in alcohol abuse in the last one month after the government ordered crackdown on second generation drinks.
He called for government and private sector support on rehabilitating alcohol addicts.
“We are happy to see young people and elderly men sober and engage in productive activities,” he said.
He added that sporting activities would be launched to keep youths occupied.