Aasai

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has come out in strong support of a new proposal to raise the drinking age in Kenya from 18 to 21 years and other alcohol regulations amid widespread criticism. Speaking at a high-level security conference in Kajiado County on August 2, 2025, Murkomen slammed the clergy and the alcohol industry for failing to support government efforts to protect youth from the dangers of alcohol.

He criticized alcohol companies for putting profits rather than public health, citing concerns raised by the Alcohol Manufacturers that the proposed changes would adversely affect their income. Murkomen questioned the logic of opposing the policy intended to protect the nations youth, saying that economic issues should not exceed the need for responsible control. 

He also expressed sadness by religious leaders, accusing them of sitting quietly rather than supporting the plan in public. Murkomen complained that no church leader spoke to support the move, which he believes is in line with the moral and social responsibilities that religious institutions claim to hold. "I saw in the media people saying this government is damaging the economy, I saw a large alcohol company saying its profit would be reduced if the age of alcohol was raised to 21. Is there a sane person to say to increase the legal age of alcohol from 18 to 21 years?

His remarks are coming despite growing public debates on major changes supported by Nacada, with critics warning about the potential for economic deterioration and anxiety concerns. However, Murkomen stressed that the prosperity of the youth of the country must be first, and called on all stakeholders to put the interests of future generations in the face of short-term -term financial benefits.

The ministers remarks come a few days after his ministry launched a new national policy developed by the National Campaign Authority against alcohol and drugs (NACADA). The policy aims to address the growing cases of alcohol and drug abuse across the country. Among the most notable suggestions is the promotion of the legal alcohol age of alcohol from 18 to 21 years. If implemented, young people under the age of 21 will not be allowed to buy or use alcohol and will also be prevented from entering alcoholic stations, even when accompanying an adult. The policy also aims to ban online sales and alcohol delivery at home, especially popular services among urban residents. Alcoholism and the use of alcoholic machines will also be banned. In addition, supermarkets, gasoline stations, cafes, and retail stores near residential or school areas will no longer be allowed to sell alcohol.

The proposals also include strong suppression against advertising and alcohol spots. Nacada wants to completely ban the use of celebrities such as musicians, actors, influencers, and celebrities in advertising alcohol products. People aged 25 and older will be allowed to appear in alcohol -related advertisements, which should not present drinking as fashionable or desirable. Alcohol broadcasts on TV, radio, and digital systems will be banned between 5:00 am and 10:00 pm.

The ban will spread to stations with foreign content, such as music videos, films, and online materials that indicate the use of alcohol or drugs positively. Alcohol brands will also be banned from funding youth-related events such as school events, university activities, sports competitions, and art competitions. Alcohol posters will face more strict rules and will not be allowed within 300 meters of schools, hospitals, housing or government offices.