NACADA Clarifies: No Ban on Alcohol Ads, Online Sales or Celebrity Endorsements—Yet
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has moved to clarify recent media reports suggesting a sweeping ban on alcohol advertising, online sales, home deliveries, and celebrity endorsements.
In an official statement, NACADA refuted claims of any immediate bans, emphasizing that the measures being reported are policy proposals—not enforceable laws.
Policy, Not Law: Setting the Record Straight
Following the launch of the National Policy for the Prevention, Management and Control of Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse (2025), confusion erupted over the status of certain recommendations.
Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, NACADA’s Chief Executive Officer, addressed the concerns:
“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.”
The misunderstanding arose after the policy’s unveiling by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen in Nairobi, where some outlets reported the proposals as active regulations.
What the Policy Actually Means
NACADA clarified that the new policy is meant to guide future legislative and regulatory efforts in the fight against alcohol and substance abuse—especially among the youth.
“These measures are currently policy recommendations. Their inclusion aims to initiate legal and regulatory reviews, subject to proper procedures,” the Authority stated.
The next step involves crafting a multi-sectoral implementation framework, bringing together government agencies, the private sector, civil society, and the public. Any proposal that requires legal enforcement will follow the standard legislative process, including public participation.
A Call for Accurate Information
NACADA urged both the public and media to view the policy as a roadmap—not as immediate enforcement.
“We urge the media and the public to treat this policy as what it is—a roadmap, not an enforcement measure,” Dr. Omerikwa said. “NACADA’s goal is to protect our youth, reduce alcohol-related harm, and foster a healthier, more productive society.”
The agency encouraged Kenyans to seek verified updates through NACADA’s official channels or via their website at www.nacada.go.ke.
Bottom Line
While sweeping changes to alcohol regulation may be on the horizon, no current bans are in place regarding advertising, online sales, home delivery, or celebrity endorsements. NACADA’s policy marks the start of a consultative process, not an abrupt shift in law.
