NACADA shuts down illegal rehab centre over inhumane conditions
The facility, which lacked proper licenses, was found to be operating without qualified medical or counselling staff, putting the lives of its clients at serious risk.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has shut down Ahadi Rehabilitation Centre in Githunguri, Kiambu County, after uncovering shocking conditions during an unannounced inspection.
The facility, which lacked proper licenses, was found to be operating without qualified medical or counselling staff, putting the lives of its clients at serious risk.
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The inspection, conducted by NACADA’s Compliance and Enforcement team and public health officials, revealed overcrowded and dirty dormitories with torn, soiled mattresses and blocked toilets.
The kitchen, where food for patients was being prepared, was in a filthy state, with meals stored in unsanitary conditions that could easily lead to disease outbreaks. Several clients were visibly unwell and had not received any medical care.
“This isn’t just substandard, it’s criminal exploitation of vulnerable Kenyans. We will not tolerate these so-called rehabilitation centres that operate as human warehouses rather than places of healing,” said NACADA CEO Dr Anthony Omerikwa.
He said all clients were safely transferred to licensed treatment facilities, and their families were contacted to assist with relocation. The centre was immediately shut down.
Dr Omerikwa noted that while the country faces a severe shortage of rehabilitation services, compromising the safety and dignity of patients is unacceptable.
“Recovery must happen with dignity, not in conditions that negate that principle. Effective immediately, we’re launching nationwide inspections to root out every illegal facility preying on desperate families,” he said.
He said only 139 out of 255 facilities inspected by NACADA were accredited to operate legally, despite an estimated 3.2 million Kenyans living with substance use disorders.
NACADA is urging members of the public to confirm the licensing status of rehab centres before admitting patients and to report any suspicious operations via their toll-free line 1192.
The crackdown comes amid growing concerns over the rise of unregulated private rehabs taking advantage of families in crisis. Studies show that one in four private rehab centres may be operating illegally, pointing to the urgent need for tighter oversight.
As NACADA prepares to roll out nationwide inspections, the authority is sending a clear message: unethical practices in addiction treatment will not be tolerated, and the well-being of those seeking help must come first.
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