NACADA bars influencers from promoting alcoholic products online
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has reaffirmed its commitment to stopping social media influencers and public figures from promoting alcoholic drinks online, citing risks to young people.
According to the newly launched National Alcohol Policy, influencers will no longer be allowed to receive payment to advertise or glamorise alcohol on digital platforms.
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In a statement shared on Monday, September 22, 2025, NACADA attributed its new national policy to the fact that the next generation is at risk of engaging in drug and substance abuse if influencers are seen posting alcohol products.
The anti-drug agency, in addition, emphasised that the directive is not about taking away fun, but about protecting the youth from being drawn into harmful lifestyles by online influencers.
“It’s not just content. It’s an invitation. 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 isn’t about cancelling fun; it’s about protecting the next generation,” NACADA stated.
It is worth noting that as part of the new policy, NACADA had earlier announced that alcohol import and export licensing will be moved to a digital platform in a bid to boost transparency and streamline trade processes.
NACADA of alcoholism in campuses
NACADA noted that influencers normalise alcohol use, which young people tend to emulate, adding that campuses face problems because alcohol is promoted as a must-have lifestyle.
The authority stressed that it was time for a policy change to demand safer spaces by ending such glamorization.
“Influencers normalise. Young people emulate. We can’t wonder why campuses have problems when alcohol is sold as a must-have lifestyle. It’s time for a policy change. Let’s demand safer spaces by stopping the glamorization, “NACADA added.
Also watch : NACADA proposes stricter alcohol Laws, including age and sale restrictions
In a report released on Monday, August 18, 2025, NACADA said the findings from the National Survey on Drug and Substance Use in Universities, 30.4 per cent of students have consumed alcohol, 12.2 per cent are current drinkers, and 10.4 per cent engage in binge drinking, with male students disproportionately affected.
“These figures depict a concerning trend of alcohol abuse jeopardising the future of our youth,” NACADA said.
Additionally, the anti-drug agency pledged full cooperation with both national and county governments, alongside law enforcement and community stakeholders, to ensure the success of the crackdown.
“As the primary government agency responsible for leading the fight against alcohol and drug abuse, NACADA pledges its full support to the directive,” the statement continued.
