The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has backed a proposal to raise Kenya’s legal drinking age from 18 to 21, citing scientific research and global best practices as key reasons for the move.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, July 14, 2025, NACADA said delaying the legal drinking age is an effective prevention strategy that can protect young people from long-term harm.
“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,” the authority noted.
NACADA emphasized that the brain continues to develop until a person’s mid-20s. Studies show that postponing alcohol consumption reduces the risk of addiction, brain damage, and poor decision-making among youth.
The authority referenced the United States, where the legal drinking age is 21, saying such countries have recorded lower levels of underage drinking, alcohol-related deaths, and drug abuse compared to countries with lower drinking ages.
The proposal is part of a broader 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 seeks to curb alcohol and drug abuse through stricter regulations, particularly among young people.
Among the proposed changes is a ban on the sale of alcohol near schools, churches, and residential areas. Bars and liquor stores will not be allowed to operate within 300 metres of these institutions.
Additionally, the policy aims to shut down all forms of online alcohol sales. NACADA raised concern over how easily teenagers order alcohol through mobile apps or websites and have it delivered to their homes. “The online space has become a loophole. This must stop,” the authority stated.
The policy also includes a ban on celebrities promoting alcohol brands and prohibits alcohol adverts during children’s programmes or school events.
A recent NACADA survey in 2025 revealed that 87.3 per cent of university students in Kenya consume alcohol, with many getting access through friends, local shops, or neighbourhood bars.
With the new policy, NACADA hopes to reduce the availability of alcohol to minors and promote healthier, safer lifestyles for young people across the country.
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