he National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has issued an official clarification following widespread media reports misrepresenting the contents of the newly launched National Policy for the Prevention, Management and Control of Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse (2025).
Speaking in Nairobi shortly after the policy’s launch by Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, MBS, Chief Executive Officer of NACADA, emphasized that contrary to public speculation, no bans have been imposed on alcohol advertising, online sales, home deliveries, or celebrity endorsements.
“This is a national policy, not a law,” Dr. Omerikwa stated.
“There have been misleading claims that NACADA has implemented prohibitions on various industry practices. We wish to make it clear that these are recommendations, not enforceable regulations.
They are part of a broader policy framework aimed at addressing alcohol and substance abuse in Kenya.”
The 2025 policy is intended to serve as a guiding roadmap for addressing the growing challenges of drug and substance abuse, particularly among the youth.
According to NACADA, any future regulation stemming from the policy will be subject to a transparent and inclusive legal review, involving input from all relevant stakeholders.
“The next phase will be the development of a multi-sectoral implementation framework,” said Dr. Omerikwa.
“This will bring together government agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, and the public to discuss practical steps for implementation.
Any legislative proposals will only be advanced after extensive public participation and consultation.”
The policy emphasizes the need for preventive action, public awareness, treatment support, and effective regulatory measures to reduce the health and social harms associated with alcohol and drug use.
However, NACADA reiterated that no immediate enforcement or legal restrictions have been put in place following the policy’s launch.
NACADA is urging both the media and the public to approach the policy with a balanced understanding.
“Let us not misinterpret what is essentially a tool for future planning and consultation,” Dr. Omerikwa noted.
“Our focus remains on protecting the well-being of our communities, particularly the youth, by promoting healthier choices and reducing substance abuse-related harm.”
Members of the public, industry players, and other interest groups are encouraged to follow official NACADA platforms or visit www.nacada.go.ke for verified updates and policy documents.
“We remain committed to building a drug-free, healthy, and productive society,” concluded Dr. Omerikwa.
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