The National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has announced a nationwide crackdown targeting bars, liquor outlets, and billboards promoting alcoholic drinks near schools.
This move aims to address concerns about alcohol promotion close to schools and institutions catering to minors.
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NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa stated that the crackdown will specifically target bars and liquor establishments within 300 meters of educational institutions or areas frequented by individuals under 18.
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He emphasized that the increased promotion of alcohol through billboards near schools is a significant violation of existing laws.
According to Omerikwa, the enforcement will be carried out in collaboration with National and County Government agencies to ensure strict adherence to the legal requirements regarding the positioning of these outlets.
He expressed concern that the presence of such billboards undermines efforts to combat alcohol consumption among the youth by normalizing and glamorizing drinking.
Omerikwa also urged advertising agencies and businesses to demonstrate social responsibility, emphasizing that the initiative is rooted in the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010 and the Alcoholic Drinks Promotion Regulations.
The Act imposes legal penalties, including fines of up to Ksh.500,000 or imprisonment for up to three years, or both, for those who sell alcohol in prohibited locations.
The crackdown is part of broader government efforts to curb alcohol and drug abuse, particularly among the youth.
Speaking at the launch of NACADA’s Strategic Plan 2023-2027 in Nairobi, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo highlighted the detrimental impact of illicit brews, alcohol, and substance abuse on the country’s progress, with a significant focus on the youth.
Omollo cited NACADA statistics, revealing that the average age for alcohol initiation in Kenya is 16 years. He noted that the Interior Cabinet Secretary, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, declared illicit alcohol and drug abuse a top national security threat in March, prompting a more aggressive stance against these issues.
