By Rafiyat Sadiq
Widespread criticism has trailed Kenya’s latest attempt to tighten control over the sale and consumption of alcohol, following the unveiling of a far-reaching draft policy that proposes raising the legal drinking age from 18 to 21 and banning alcohol sales in supermarkets, restaurants, and public transport.
The policy, presented Wednesday by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), also seeks to outlaw online alcohol sales, home deliveries, and the use of celebrities in alcohol promotions. If adopted, alcohol would only be sold in bars, pubs, and shops specially licensed for that purpose.
NACADA defended the proposals as part of efforts to tackle rising substance abuse, particularly among young people. The agency noted that, according to its 2022 estimates, one in every 20 Kenyans aged 15 to 65 struggles with alcohol addiction.
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However, the proposals have triggered swift backlash from industry players and members of the public, many of whom describe the measures as excessive, exclusionary, and harmful to the economy.
The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) faulted NACADA for failing to consult industry stakeholders in draughting the policy. In a statement, the association described the proposals as “unrealistic” and warned that the restrictions could lead to job losses and drive more Kenyans toward dangerous, unregulated brews.
“It is unfortunate that manufacturers, who could have added valuable insights to the policy, were excluded,” ABAK said.
Prominent lawyer Donald Kipkorir, writing on social media, criticised the proposed restrictions, warning that they could cripple the country’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
“Banning alcohol in supermarkets, restaurants, public beaches, petrol stations, and recreational facilities will kill the hospitality sector. Tourism is driven by good food, alcohol and leisure,” he stated.
NACADA Clarifies Position
Amid the uproar, NACADA issued a statement describing the proposals as a “road map” rather than immediate enforcement action. The agency clarified that any aspect of the draft requiring legislation would go through due process, including consultations and legal review.
“The next step is to develop an implementation plan that will involve different stakeholders,” the statement read.
Despite the clarification, concerns remain among traders and business owners who fear that the proposed reforms could undermine their livelihoods.
Past Attempts and Lingering Challenges
Kenya has a long history of efforts to curb alcohol abuse, including through past legislative reforms. However, the problem has persisted, with dozens of deaths reported over the years due to the consumption of illicit and toxic brews.
In 2023, then-Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua proposed a policy limiting counties to one licensed pub per town in Central Kenya, where alcohol abuse remains a major concern. That initiative was met with resistance from bar and restaurant owners who argued that the government was targeting legitimate businesses rather than addressing the root causes of abuse. The plan was eventually shelved.
As debate continues, many observers are calling for a more inclusive and balanced approach that addresses substance abuse without endangering jobs, legal businesses, or the country’s economic recovery efforts.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
