NACADA backs proposal to raise legal drinking age to 21

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has backed a proposal to raise the legal drinking age in Kenya from 18 to 21, saying the move is rooted in research and international best practices.

“The proposal to raise the legal drinking age to 21 is a well-informed prevention strategy grounded in scientific research, public health best practices, and evidence from global success stories,” NACADA stated in a post on X on Monday, July 14, 2025.

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According to the Authority, studies have shown that delaying the age young people start drinking reduces the risk of addiction, brain damage, and risky behaviour.

“The brain continues developing until the mid-20s,” the post added.

NACADA also pointed to countries like the United States, where the minimum drinking age is 21, saying such nations report lower levels of underage drinking, drunk-driving deaths, and alcohol-related harm compared to those with lower age limits.

The move is part of a wider plan under the new National Policy on the Prevention of Alcohol, Drugs and Substance Use (2025), which was approved by the Cabinet on June 24. The policy includes strict rules aimed at reducing alcohol and drug abuse among young people.

Tougher rules on alcohol

Some of the proposed measures include banning alcohol sales near schools, churches, and residential areas. Bars and liquor shops will not be allowed to operate within 300 metres of such places.

The policy also plans to ban all forms of online alcohol sales, including through mobile apps and vending machines. Home delivery of alcohol will be stopped to prevent minors from accessing alcohol easily.

“The online space has become a loophole. Teenagers are ordering alcohol from their phones and getting it delivered to their homes. This must stop,” NACADA stated.

In addition, celebrities will no longer be allowed to promote alcohol brands, and adverts will be banned during children’s programmes and school events.

The 2025 survey by NACADA showed that 87.3 per cent of university students in Kenya consume alcohol, with many saying they get drugs from friends, canteens, and neighbourhood bars.

Through the new policy, NACADA aims to build a safer environment for young people and promote healthy lifestyles by reducing demand and access to drugs and alcohol across the country.