The National Authority for Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has insisted on barring famous national figures from advertising alcoholic products using online platforms.

In a statement shared via X on Monday, September 22, 2025, the anti-drug abuse agency said the next generation is at risk of engaging in drug and substance abuse if influencers are seen posting alcohol products.

The statement comes at a time when alcohol abuse among the youth is on the rise, with many consuming counterfeit products, according to the latest reports. NACADA also urged influencers to use their influence in safeguarding the future generation and to stop normalising addictive behaviour.

”When a public figure glamorises alcohol online, they’re not just posting, they’re influencing. And that influence puts our youth at risk. The new National Policy is a crucial step: influencers should NOT be paid to promote drinks. This is not about cancelling fun; it’s about protecting the next generation,” NACADA said in a statement.

The warning comes days after a NACADA raid uncovered a drug den across the fence from Siaya Primary School.

Alcohol abuse among the youth in Kenya

In Kenya, current statistics indicate that more than half of drug users are aged 10-19 years. Most studies done in the country indicate that the commonly used drugs are nicotine, alcohol and cannabis.

The country’s state corporation was established by an Act of Parliament in 2012 to coordinate national policies, prevention programs, and demand reduction strategies to control alcohol and drug abuse. 

NACADA’s mandate includes public education, awareness campaigns, life skills training, and collaboration with various stakeholders, including government bodies, faith-based organisations, and community groups. 

Recently, NACADA sent a reminder that drug prevention measures in schools are mandatory and not open to compromise, urging all stakeholders to act with urgency.

In a statement released on Thursday, September 4, 2025, through its official X platform, NACADA emphasised that existing national guidelines must be adhered to without fail, pointing directly to the role of schools and communities in shaping the country’s future.

“The National Guidelines are clear: prevention in schools is non-negotiable. Let’s hold ourselves accountable,” the agency declared.
The authority stressed that the issue of drug prevention is not just about ticking policy boxes but about safeguarding the lives and well-being of students across the country. According to the agency, ensuring compliance with school prevention frameworks is a duty for all involved, from policymakers to local communities.