The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has expressed concern over the sale of minors at outlets located in petrol stations within Nairobi estates.
In a statement on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, NACADA revealed that the outlets located within Lavington, Kileleshwa, Kilimani and Ngong Road are leading in this vice.
The authority attributed the rise in the selling of alcoholic drinks to minors to the rise in the use of mobile transactions.
“This alarming trend is linked to the increased reliance on mobile money transactions, bypassing the requirement of verifying customers’ ages. ages. This is often premised on the assumption that anyone with mobile money is over 10 years old. NACADA reminds all alcohol dispensing outlets and the public of the following key provisions under The Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010,” NACADA’s statement read in part.
While warning the outlets, NACADA revealed that those found culpable will be fined Ksh150,000 or face a 12-month imprisonment.
“Selling alcohol to minors is strictly prohibited. Section 32 (1) of the Act prohibits the sale or supply of alcoholic drinks to individuals under 18 years. Violation of this provision attracts a fine of up to Ksh150,000 or imprisonment for up to 12 months, or both,” NACADA’s statement read in part.
“Proper identification and age verification of customers is mandatory. Section 32 (4) mandates operators of alcohol-selling establishments to demand proof of age through valid identification before serving a customer. Non-compliance constitutes an offence under the Act,” it added.
Crackdown
In addition, NACADA announced a nationwide crackdown to protect minors. The authority explained that the operation would also target those running their outlets outside of the stipulated hours.
“Section 12 provides for prescribed operating hours for alcohol outlets as determined by respective County Alcoholic Drinks Control Committees. Operating outside these hours constitutes an offence As we approach the festive season, NAÇADA reiterates its commitment to protecting Kenyans, particularly the youth.
“The Authority will conduct nationwide crackdowns in collaboration with other enforcement agencies to ensure strict adherence to the law,” the authority announced.
PRESS STATEMENT!!!@NTVnewsroom @MpashoNews @ktnhome_ @citizentvkenya @InteriorKE @K24Tv @Tuko_co_ke @Kenyans pic.twitter.com/EMyo6781tg
— NACADA Kenya (@NACADAKenya) December 17, 2024
