NACADA proposes raising legal drinking age from 18 to 21

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has proposed raising the legal drinking age in Kenya in an effort to combat substance abuse among youth.

According to its latest recommendations published on Wednesday, July 30, NACADA said the move is aimed at delaying initiation and reducing drugs use.

“Raise minimum legal age for alcohol consumption from 18 to 21years,” the agency recommended.

NACADA also wants alcohol- and drug-free zones to be declared around schools and faith-based institutions.

Further, it is pushing for the integration of life skills, drug education, and mental health awareness into school curricula.

Community-focused prevention programs targeting parents, youth groups, and local leaders are also among the measures being encouraged.

On the marketing front, the authority is calling for a total ban on outdoor advertising, social media endorsements, and celebrity involvement in alcohol promotions.

NACADA further recommends that marketing be prohibited during children’s programming, school events, and national holidays.

In addition, the agency wants mandatory health warning labels in both English and Kiswahili on all alcoholic products.

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It is also seeking tighter regulation of sponsorships, product placements, and media portrayals of substance use.

To control access and availability, NACADA proposes banning online alcohol sales, vending machines, and home delivery services.

It also recommends strict enforcement of zoning laws to prevent alcohol outlets from operating within 300 meters of schools and residential areas.

The agency also wants alcohol licensing and inspection systems digitized to improve oversight and transparency.

In addition, NACADA is urging for heightened border surveillance and stronger crackdowns on counterfeit and illicit drugs entering the country.

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