Here are NACADA's new tough proposals to curb rising drug and substance abuse

The government has introduced new regulations with far-reaching implications for alcohol consumers and those who profit from alcohol sales.

This follows the launch on Wednesday of the new national policy for the prevention, management and control of alcohol and substance abuse in Kenya, which primarily seeks to limit the availability and accessibility of alcohol and drugs.

Going forward, the sale of alcohol and cigarettes at events where children are present, including sports and entertainment events, art and music competitions, shall be prohibited, in the new proposals.

Other prohibited locations include public beaches, public parks, amusement parks, recreational facilities, medical facilities, sports facilities, bus parks, bus stops, petrol stations, railway stations, public transport including trains, ferry stations, piers and along highways.

At the same time, purchasing drinks from vending machines or hawkers will no longer be permitted.

Supermarkets, outlets selling products associated with children, such as toy shops, residential premises and restaurants, will also not be allowed to sell alcohol and drugs.

Consumers accustomed to receiving free samples or discounted sales at these locations will also no longer be able to do so.

Regarding advertising, the policy now states that sports personalities, media personalities, models, social media influencers or celebrities will no longer be allowed to endorse, promote or advertise alcoholic drinks, drugs and substances.

Furthermore, anyone featured in advertising or endorsement of alcoholic drinks must be over 25 years old. There shall also be no lifestyle advertising in any form of advertisement or promotion.

It will no longer be permissible to promote or advertise any alcoholic drink or substance by suggesting that it is acceptable or fashionable to consume alcohol and substances before, during or after playing sports, driving, operating machinery or engaging in any activity that requires concentration to be performed safely.

Viewers will also no longer see alcohol brands or cigarettes advertised during watershed hours (5 am to 10 pm) on television.

Outdoor advertising of alcoholic drinks within 300 metres of educational institutions, including institutions of higher learning, is also prohibited.

Additionally, advertisements and promotions must not place emphasis on alcoholic content as a positive attribute of the beverage.

The production and broadcasting of music, films, stage plays and performances, or any audio-visual programme that positively depicts the consumption of alcohol, drugs and substances in electronic or print media will be banned.

All prize-oriented competitions and promotions for alcoholic products that encourage increased consumption to win will also be prohibited.

Manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers or any related agents of alcoholic drinks shall not name or brand a sports team with the name of an alcoholic product, nor sponsor or brand a sports league, tournament or national team.

The National Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) says these measures have been prompted by an alarming rise in substance potency and variety, coupled with surging illicit drug trafficking that demands urgent and decisive action.

“All stakeholders must act, leveraging the provisions of this policy to forge strong, synchronised partnerships with the government and with one another,” the authority states in the policy document.