NAIROBI, Kenya- In a move to curb underage drinking, the National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has announced a nationwide crackdown on bars, liquor outlets, and alcohol advertisements near schools.
This initiative, led by NACADA’s Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa, is part of a broader effort to protect young people from the harmful effects of alcohol and drug abuse.
NACADA’s new operation takes direct aim at bars and liquor outlets located within 300 meters of schools and areas frequented by minors.
According to Omerikwa, the increasing presence of alcohol advertisements near educational institutions is a clear violation of the law, and it’s time to put an end to it.
“These billboards normalize and glamorize drinking, undermining our efforts to combat alcohol abuse,” Omerikwa stated.
This crackdown isn’t just about removing ads—it’s about enforcing compliance with the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010, which lays out strict rules on the sale and promotion of alcohol.
The Alcoholic Drinks Promotion Regulations explicitly prohibit the sale of alcohol in prohibited areas, with penalties reaching up to Ksh 500,000, three years in prison, or both.
The crackdown will see NACADA working closely with National and County Government agencies to ensure these standards are met across the country.
This initiative is part of a wider government effort to tackle alcohol and drug abuse, especially among the youth.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, has voiced concerns over the devastating impact of illicit brews and substance abuse on the nation’s progress, particularly among young people and schools.
He pointed to worrying NACADA statistics showing that the average age for first-time alcohol use in Kenya is just 16 years.
Dr. Omollo’s comments echo the sentiments of Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki, who earlier this year declared the fight against illicit alcohol, drugs, and substance abuse a top national security priority.
With this crackdown, the government signals a more aggressive stance in addressing these pressing issues.
As NACADA steps up its efforts to protect the youth from the dangers of alcohol, Omerikwa has urged businesses and advertising agencies to act responsibly.
The crackdown is not just about enforcement; it’s a call for everyone involved to consider the long-term impact of their actions on the next generation.
As the government intensifies its battle against alcohol and drug abuse, this initiative serves as a reminder that safeguarding the well-being of young Kenyans is a collective responsibility.
