NACADA Begins a Crackdown on Bars Near Schools.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has declared an across-the-nation crackdown on bars near educational institutions.
In a press statement, NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa announced the closure of the affected establishments and the removal of alcohol-promoting billboards near schools.
“The crackdown will target bars and liquor dispensing establishments located less than 300 meters from educational institutions or areas catering to individuals under 18 years old,” according to Omerikwa.
He added that relevant national and county government authorities would coordinate the crackdown.
Omerikwa told reporters that the presence of such billboards hinders efforts to combat alcohol abuse by normalizing consumption and promoting it as an enticing and glamorous choice.
He asked advertising agencies and enterprises to be socially responsible.
The operation is the latest in a series of government programs aimed at combating alcohol and drug consumption, particularly among youths.
It is compliant with the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010 and the Alcoholic Drinks Promotion Regulations.
The CEO urged advertising firms and businesses to demonstrate social responsibility.
Anyone who sells alcoholic beverages in forbidden venues faces legal consequences under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act.
Those found to have broken the law face a fine of up to Sh500,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
Interior PS Raymond Omollo, speaking at the introduction of the agency’s Strategic Plan 2023-27 in Nairobi, stated that illegal brew, alcohol, and substance misuse primarily harmed youth and were hindering Kenya’s progress.
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According to Nacada figures, the average age at which people begin drinking alcohol in Kenya is 16 years old.
“Drug use and abuse in the country has also been identified as affecting mostly the youth and our learning institutions.”
On March 6, the government identified illicit alcohol, drug, and substance misuse as a top national security issue.
According to Omollo, the proclamation escalated the fight against illicit substances, requiring a stronger war against the vice.
NACADA Begins a Crackdown on Bars Near Schools.
