In a sweeping crackdown, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has banned the sale and consumption of alcohol across a wide range of public spaces and commercial outlets, including supermarkets, online platforms, and restaurants.
The bold directive, unveiled Wednesday, aims to curb access and exposure to alcohol, particularly among children and vulnerable populations.
“This is a decisive step to reduce the availability of alcohol and protect public health, especially the youth,” said NACADA Chairperson Prof. Mabel Imbuga during the release of the new guidelines.
Where Alcohol Sale is Now Banned:
According to NACADA’s statement, alcohol sales are now prohibited in the following areas:
- Supermarkets
- Online platforms, including home delivery and courier services
- Petrol stations
- Restaurants
- Toy shops and other outlets associated with children
- Residential premises
- Public vending machines
- Bus stops, bus parks, railway stations, ferry piers, and along highways
- Public beaches, parks, recreational and amusement facilities
- Medical and sports centres
- All educational institutions -nursery to university
- Hawking of alcohol is completely outlawed
Additionally, alcohol cannot be sold to anyone accompanied by a child, and it is illegal to sell alcohol at any child-focused event-such as parties, festivals, or sports days.
Areas Where Drinking Alcohol is Banned:
Consumption of alcohol is now illegal in:
- Beaches, parks, and recreational grounds
- Restaurants and dining areas within clubs and hotels
- Medical and sports facilities
- All public transport-related areas
- Any premises if one is armed with an offensive weapon
No individual under the age of 21 is allowed to enter premises where alcohol is sold, even when accompanied by an adult.
Tough New Licensing Rules
NACADA also issued strict licensing conditions:
- No alcohol outlet can be within 300 metres of any school or learning institution.
- The number of alcohol outlets per area will be limited based on population density.
- Sale of alcohol in packages smaller than 250ml is now banned.
- General retail alcohol licences (e.g. for supermarkets and wines & spirits shops) are revoked.
- Licensing frameworks must now include community involvement and avoid alcohol industry influence.
To enhance accountability, NACADA stressed that no public officer involved in enforcement will be allowed to own or operate alcohol outlets, directly or indirectly.
“These reforms aim to create a healthier society and ensure alcohol is handled responsibly, without interference from vested interests,” said NACADA CEO Victor Okioma.
As counties begin enforcing the new rules, NACADA has urged all retail and entertainment venues to implement responsible alcohol service training for their staff.
The latest directives have already sparked intense debate across the country, with supporters praising the public health move and critics warning of economic and enforcement challenges.
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