NACADA Statement on Banning Alcohol Advertising and Online Sales in Kenya

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) wishes to clarify misinformation circulating in parts of the media following today's launch of the National Policy for the Prevention, Management and Control of Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse (2025) by the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Interior and National Administration Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen in Nairobi.

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 emphasize that no bans have been introduced. These measures are currently policy recommendations, not law. Their inclusion aims to initiate legal and regulatory reviews, subject to proper procedures.

The next step after this launch is the development of a multi-sectoral implementation framework, bringing together stakeholders from government, industry, civil society, and the public. This process will set out practical steps towards achieving the policy's aims. Any proposal that requires legal backing will undergo a thorough law review process, which will be transparent and inclusive.

Most importantly, public participation will be central to this process, enabling citizens, businesses, and interest groups to share their views and address any contentious issues before implementation.

We urge the media and the public to treat this policy as what it is, a roadmap, not an enforcement measure. 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.

For accurate updates, please refer to www.nacada.go.ke or our official platforms.

Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, MBS
Chief Executive Officer