NACADA Warns of Minors Accessing Alcohol, Announces Crackdown Ahead of Festive Season
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has sounded the alarm over the increasing trend of minors accessing alcohol, particularly in areas with high concentrations of petrol stations and retail outlets in Nairobi’s Lavington, Kileleshwa, Kilimani, and Ngong Road estates. The authority has identified these locations as hotspots where underage individuals are obtaining alcohol from dispensing outlets, with a worrying surge in these incidents in recent months.
One key factor driving this alarming trend is the rise in mobile money transactions, which has led to significant challenges in enforcing age verification when alcohol is purchased via mobile platforms. In many instances, these transactions bypass traditional age verification checks that are typically conducted during face-to-face purchases. As a result, many minors are using mobile money platforms to illegally purchase alcohol without the necessary checks that would prevent such sales in physical stores.
In a statement issued on Monday, Dr. Anthony Omerikwa, NACADA’s Chief Executive Officer, condemned alcohol-selling outlets for failing to properly verify the ages of their customers, which has contributed to this surge in underage alcohol consumption. Dr. Omerikwa stressed that many of these outlets, particularly those in the targeted areas, are knowingly disregarding the law, making it easier for minors to access alcohol despite the legal restrictions in place.
“The failure of some alcohol outlets to properly verify the ages of their customers, particularly through mobile payment systems, has led to an unacceptable rise in underage drinking. This is a serious violation of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010,” Dr. Omerikwa said. “It is imperative that all alcohol-selling outlets adhere strictly to the law to protect the well-being of our young people and prevent them from engaging in harmful alcohol consumption.”
The Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010, is clear in its provisions. Section 32(1) of the Act explicitly prohibits the sale or supply of alcoholic beverages to individuals under the age of 18. Those found in violation of this law face severe penalties, including a fine of up to KES 150,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both.
Dr. Omerikwa further called on alcohol retailers, including those operating through mobile money platforms, to ensure strict compliance with the law. He emphasized that failure to do so would lead to severe legal consequences, including possible shutdowns of non-compliant outlets and legal action against owners.
With the festive season fast approaching, NACADA has announced plans for a nationwide crackdown to curb the sale of alcohol to minors. The authority is prepared to step up its efforts, working closely with law enforcement agencies and local authorities to ensure that alcohol is sold only to individuals who meet the legal age requirements. NACADA also plans to launch a public awareness campaign to inform the public about the dangers of underage drinking and the legal consequences of selling alcohol to minors.
“The festive season is often a time when alcohol consumption peaks, and we cannot afford to let minors be exposed to its harmful effects,” Dr. Omerikwa stated. “We are calling on retailers, parents, and the general public to be vigilant and to report any illegal sales of alcohol to minors. Together, we can help protect the future of our young people and ensure a safer and healthier environment for all.”
As part of its enforcement strategy, NACADA will also encourage the public to report any outlets or individuals found violating the law. The authority has assured the public that all complaints will be thoroughly investigated, and violators will be held accountable for their actions.
On the same breath, Reverend Fredrick Mwangi a board member at NACADA echoed the same statement and called upon parents and caregivers to be especially careful this festive season
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