NACADA's Alcohol Ban Proposal Sparks Outrage: Where Exactly
Kenyans across the country woke up to an unexpected policy proposal from NACADA (National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse). The body is now proposing a sweeping ban on the sale of alcohol in restaurants, supermarkets, recreational facilities, and even establishments along highways. If implemented, this move could radically transform Kenya’s social, cultural, and economic landscape—but not everyone is impressed.
What NACADA Wants
According to the draft proposal released on July 29, 2025, NACADA recommends:
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A prohibition of alcohol sales in restaurants and eateries, regardless of licensing.
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A ban on supermarkets and convenience stores from stocking or selling alcoholic beverages.
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The removal of alcohol-selling points along highways, in recreational areas, or near residential neighborhoods.
The goal? Reduce alcohol consumption, prevent youth exposure, and limit road accidents linked to drink-driving.
But critics say NACADA is firing at the wrong targets. Restaurants and supermarkets are among the most structured, regulated, and culturally accepted venues for alcohol consumption.
Kenyans React: Online Backlash Ensues
Within hours, #NACADABan and #WhereToDrink began trending on X (formerly Twitter), with memes, satire, and scathing critiques flooding timelines.
Trending comments include:
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"So where do we drink? In the forest?"
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"Restaurants and highways are the only safe places to drink. Home is where the drama starts."
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"Is Sudi affected? Asking for a friend."
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"Even Jesus turned water into wine."
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"This can never work. Not in Kenya."
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"NACADA must be high on something stronger than Muratina."
Supermarkets & Restaurants: The Real Casualties
For many Kenyans, restaurants and supermarkets are the primary legal and responsible alcohol access points:
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Restaurants: Controlled environments where alcohol is served with food.
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Supermarkets: Retail stores with strict age checks and proper documentation.
Removing alcohol from these venues risks:
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Growth of illegal drinking dens.
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Loss of jobs for thousands in retail, hospitality, and transport.
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A hit to tax revenues and tourism.
These venues are key players in the formal economy, not rogue outlets. Banning them may cause more harm than healing.
Is Oscar Sudi Affected?
The internet wants to know: Is Timber XO under threat?
Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi—known for his popular Eldoret lounge Timber XO—hasn’t responded officially. But jokes are flying:
"This law is lowkey targeting Sudi’s grill and bottle."
It’s unclear how the law would apply to private VIP clubs like Timber XO, but if restaurants are affected, so are high-end political watering holes.
In Short, Ziuzwe Wapi?
If alcohol is banned from restaurants, supermarkets, and highways... where exactly should Kenyans drink?
This question isn’t rhetorical. Licensed clubs, bars, lounges—even hotel minibars—could be hit next.
Expect ripple effects:
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Underground brews and unlicensed dens will multiply.
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Public health will worsen due to unregulated products.
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Legal businesses will suffer; employment rates could drop.
The Herb Argument: Youth Opt for Green
Ironically, as alcohol is being banned, many youth online are promoting weed as the “righteous path.”
"Ban beer, but let the herb be."
"Cannabis is peace. Alcohol is chaos."
A generational shift is unfolding, where Gen Z considers alcohol outdated and cannabis more natural and manageable.
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