In a bold move to safeguard the welfare of individuals undergoing addiction rehabilitation, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) today shut down Better Me Options Rehabilitation Centre in Birikani, Kajiado East, citing multiple violations of operational standards.
The unannounced inspection, conducted by a multi-agency team comprising NACADA's Compliance and Enforcement Unit and public health officers, revealed disturbing conditions at the facility.
According to officials, the centre had failed to implement corrective measures recommended during a previous NACADA assessment, continuing to operate in breach of critical health and safety regulations.
Among the most serious violations identified were inadequate medical waste disposal systems, absence of qualified healthcare personnel, and a lack of clean running water in patient washrooms.
Inspectors also condemned the state of the isolation rooms as "unfit for human habitation", noting peeling paint, broken window panes, and the general poor maintenance of the premises.
Of particular concern were reports that some clients had been retained at the facility beyond recommended periods, without proper clinical review or notification of their families.
"Today's action sends a clear message that we will not tolerate facilities that compromise the recovery journey of vulnerable Kenyans," said NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr Anthony Omerikwa, who authorised the operation. "Our compliance enforcement is not about punishment, but about protecting lives and ensuring every rehabilitation centre meets the standards that clients desperately need and deserve."
The facility was issued with an immediate "Notice Not to Use" order, requiring full remediation before any consideration for reopening. Current clients are being transferred to accredited centres in coordination with their families.
This crackdown is part of NACADA's nationwide quality assurance initiative, which has seen increased surveillance of rehabilitation facilities. Dr Omerikwa urged the public to remain vigilant, advising families always to verify a centre's accreditation status before admitting their loved ones.
"As we intensify these operations countrywide, we're putting all non-compliant facilities on notice," the CEO warned. "The era of substandard rehabilitation services in Kenya is over."
NACADA has called on the public to report questionable practices at rehabilitation centres through its toll-free line 1192, as the crackdown continues across all counties.
