Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has criticized the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) over new proposed restrictions on alcohol sales and advertising, warning that the real threat lies in unregulated, toxic brews not the licensed industry. Senator Dan Maanzo said the government should focus on eradicating poisonous and illicit alcohol responsible for health emergencies across the country before targeting licensed online retailers, discounts, or brand ambassadors.
“The biggest problem in the country is poisonous alcohol,” Senator Maanzo said. “We have seen alcohol that has made people lose eyesight. That is where the government must act first.”
The lawmaker pushed back against NACADA’s proposal to ban digital alcohol sales, promotional pricing, and the use of influencers or celebrities in alcohol ads. The new bill, released on July 30, seeks to outlaw free samples, volume offers, and price cuts commonly seen in bars, stores, and e-commerce platforms.
Senator Dan Maanzo warned that such measures risk punishing legitimate businesses and workers who rely on the alcohol sector to earn a living. He said a blanket ban without broad consultation would disrupt the industry without addressing the root cause of alcohol-related deaths.
“There are people employed in this sector,” senator Maanzo said. “Before banning, the government must talk to the people, especially those involved in the industry.” He emphasized that alcohol consumption exists globally under strict health and safety standards and that Kenya should adopt a similar model.
“What is important is that the government should be concentrating on the quality of alcohol because alcohol is taken all over the world and very much controlled,” senator Maanzo said.
Kenya has seen repeated cases of mass poisoning caused by illicit brews laced with methanol or other harmful chemicals. Health officials have linked such cases to unlicensed backyard distilleries that avoid inspections and taxes.
Senator Maanzo stressed that shutting down toxic alcohol producers should be the top priority. He also urged the government to include public and industry voices in the drafting of laws that affect livelihoods.
His remarks add to growing public debate over NACADA’s proposed legislation, which has drawn support from some lawmakers but raised concerns among business groups and civil society over rushed implementation and lack of public engagement.
The final draft of the bill is expected to head to Parliament, where legislators will decide whether to approve, amend, or reject NACADA’s proposed rules.
About the Author
