The Kenyan government has unveiled sweeping proposals to control the sale and consumption of alcohol, sparking heated debate and criticism from various stakeholders.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has proposed measures including raising the minimum drinking age from 18 to 21, banning the sale of alcohol in supermarkets and restaurants, and prohibiting online sales and home delivery of alcoholic drinks. Celebrity endorsements of alcohol would also be outlawed.
NACADA defended the planned measures as necessary to address substance abuse, particularly among the youth. However, many Kenyans, including those in the alcohol industry, have criticized the proposals as misguided and potentially destructive to the economy.
They argue that the measures would lead to widespread job losses and push consumers toward the illicit alcohol market.
The Alcoholic Beverage Association of Kenya (Abak) criticized NACADA for developing the draft policy without consulting manufacturers, calling it “exclusionary” and “unrealistic”.
Abak expressed support for the fight against alcohol abuse but felt that manufacturers could have provided valuable insights to the policy.
Prominent lawyer Donald Kipkorir weighed in on the debate, stating that banning the sale of alcohol in supermarkets, restaurants, and public areas would harm Kenya’s hospitality sector, which relies heavily on tourism driven by good food, alcohol, and other attractions.
This isn’t Kenya’s first attempt to control alcohol abuse. Past legislative attempts have been made, but the problem persists, with dozens dying from consuming harmful alcohol.
A previous proposal by then-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to limit pubs in towns faced opposition and ultimately fell apart.
