The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse Nacada has dismissed media reports suggesting a ban on alcohol advertising, online sales, home deliveries, and celebrity endorsements.
In a statement issued after the launch of the National Policy for the Prevention, Management and Control of Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse (2025), Nacada CEO Anthony Omerikwa clarified that no such bans have been implemented.
“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,” he said.
The policy was launched in Nairobi by the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen.
Omerikwa said the controversial measures highlighted in the policy are only recommendations at this stage and are not legally binding, and have not yet passed through any legislative process.
“Their inclusion aims to initiate legal and regulatory reviews, subject to proper procedures,” he noted.
Following the launch, the next phase will involve developing a multi-sectoral implementation framework. This will include voices from government, civil society, the private sector, and the general public.
The Authority stressed the importance of transparency and inclusion, noting that any proposals requiring legal enforcement will undergo public participation and law review.
Nacada urged media outlets and the public to understand the nature of the policy, saying it is a roadmap, not an enforcement measure.
The Authority emphasised that the goal is to protect youth from the dangers of alcohol and substance abuse, reduce harm, and promote a healthier society.
“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,” he concluded.
The Authority encouraged Kenyans to seek updates from its official website, www.nacada.go.ke, to avoid misinformation.
