The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has clarified that there is no current ban on alcohol advertising, online sales, celebrity endorsements, or home deliveries. This comes after widespread concern over the newly launched National Policy for the Prevention, Management and Control of Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse (2025), which had many Kenyans assuming restrictions had already been enforced.
What Does NACADA’s New Policy Mean?
NACADA released a statement on Wednesday evening making it clear that the policy unveiled earlier in the day is a guideline, not a law. “This is a national policy, and contrary to reports suggesting that NACADA has banned certain practices such as alcohol advertising, online sales, home deliveries, and celebrity endorsements, we wish to emphasise that no bans have been introduced,” said NACADA CEO Dr. Anthony Omerikwa.
The policy, introduced by Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, outlines proposed measures aimed at tackling substance abuse but requires extensive review and stakeholder input before any legal steps are taken. NACADA has promised that any proposals requiring legislation will go through a transparent, participatory process involving the public, government agencies, and private players.
What Could Change in Kenya’s Alcohol Industry?
While the policy has not yet taken effect, it proposes bold restrictions. NACADA aims to eliminate aggressive alcohol marketing, including social media influencers, celebrities, and sports figures promoting alcohol. If adopted, these regulations will also prohibit promotions like discounts, free samples, flat-rate pricing, and bulk sales in bars, supermarkets, and online platforms.
In their official statement, NACADA emphasized that “NACADA’s goal, as clearly outlined in the policy, is to protect our youth from the dangers of alcohol and substance abuse, reduce related harm, and foster a healthier, more productive society.”
How Bad Is Drug Use in Kenya Right Now?
NACADA’s report also highlighted a worrying trend: drug and substance abuse is rising, with over 4.7 million Kenyans aged between 15 and 65 currently using at least one drug or substance. This statistic underscores the urgency behind the proposed measures and reinforces the Authority’s push for responsible regulation and public involvement.
As the conversation continues both online and offline, NACADA is calling on the media and citizens to understand that the policy is a planning document, not a directive, and that all proposed changes will involve open consultation before becoming law.
By Yockshard Enyendi
