NACADA puts rehabilitation centres operating illegally on notice

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has sent a stern warning to rehabilitation centres operating against the set legal frameworks and guidelines of data protection.
In a statement to the press, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa said the centres not only jeopardise the quality of care to individuals seeking services but also expose them to violation of their rights and privacy.
“NACADA has noted with concern the increasing number of rehabilitation centres operating without adherence to the requisite legal frameworks and data protection guidelines. This jeopardises the quality of care provided to individuals seeking help and exposes them to potential violations of their rights and privacy,” the CEO stated.
Omerikwa revealed that out of the 150 rehabilitation centres that were inspected by NACADA in the current financial year, only 78 were granted permission to operate.
The CEO said the license was given to the seventy-eight after they were found to be in strict adherence to the set regulations and practices of rehabilitation.
He added that any centre found violating the requirements will have their accreditation canceled.
“Out of the 150 rehabilitation facilities that were inspected, only were accredited based on strict adherence to the law and best practices in rehabilitation. Facilities that do not meet these standards are given feedback and guidance on how to align their operations. The Authority reiterates that it will not hesitate to revoke accreditation for facilities found to violate these requirements,” Omerikwa said.
He added that they are closely monitoring activities within the rehabilitation sector and will take firm legal action against unaccredited or non-compliant facilities, adding that such facilities risk facing the full extent of the law, including closure and prosecution.
“NACADA is closely monitoring activities within the rehabilitation sector and will take firm legal action against unaccredited or non-compliant facilities. The Authority advises all unaccredited centres to engage NACADA for guidance on obtaining compliance,” the CEO said.