Ruto Reappoints Reverend Dr Stephen Mairori to NACADA
President William Ruto has reappointed Reverend Dr Stephen Mairori, EBS, as the Non-Executive Chairperson of NACADA.
Moreover, his three-year term begins on January 20, 2026, reinforcing the government’s commitment to combating alcohol and drug abuse.
Mairori’s Leadership and Religious Background
Mairori, a respected religious and public leader, previously served as Senior Pastor of AIC Milimani in Nairobi.
Additionally, he held the position of Bishop of the Diaspora Area Church Council within the African Inland Church.
His leadership combined faith-based values with policy reforms, strengthening NACADA’s role in prevention and community engagement.
Policy Achievements During Previous Tenure
During his earlier term, Mairori guided NACADA through significant policy and operational changes.
For instance, the authority implemented a Community-Based Rehabilitation framework that diverted non-violent drug offenders into treatment services.
Furthermore, county governments established Alcohol and Drug Control Committees to coordinate public education and community-level interventions.
NACADA also partnered with religious leaders to expand counselling and public education on drug abuse prevention.
Alcohol control measures included bans on online alcohol sales and stricter licensing rules for supermarkets and residential areas.
Moreover, proposals to raise the legal drinking age from 18 to 21 gained national attention.
Alcohol-free buffer zones were introduced around schools, churches, and hospitals, enhancing community safety.
National Campaigns and Recognition
NACADA conducted national awareness campaigns, including the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse in Embu.
Additionally, research collaborations with institutions such as USIU-Africa tracked substance use patterns to inform policy decisions.
The authority also earned recognition for financial accountability, receiving a certificate at the 2024 FiRe Awards.
Meanwhile, President Ruto appointed new leaders across state agencies, including PSC, MSEA, KIMC, and the Anti-Doping Agency.
These appointments, alongside Mairori’s reappointment, reflect the administration’s broader effort to strengthen governance and service delivery.
