Church Leaders back State's move to raise legal drinking age

Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, the church umbrella body called for the full implementation of a raft of new proposals by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), which include banning the sale of alcohol in supermarkets, restaurants, and public transport vehicles.

“We have witnessed first-hand the devastating impact of alcohol and drug abuse on families. The immense burden placed on parents, schools, the economy, and the healthcare system is undeniable,” said Bishop Geoffrey Njuguna, who heads governance at KCCAM.

The clergy warned that the widespread availability and marketing of alcohol have contributed to the normalization and glorification of drinking, especially among young people. They called for stricter regulation of alcohol advertising, particularly on mainstream media during hours when children are likely to be watching.

“Advertisements promoting alcohol should be restricted to late hours, long after our children have gone to bed,” emphasized Bishop Hudson Ndeda, National Chair of the Church Council of Africa-Kenya (CCAK). “Passing laws is one thing, but implementing and enforcing them is what truly matters.”

KCCAM National Chair, Bishop Kepha Omae, stressed the importance of addressing not just the supply side but also the demand side of the alcohol problem.

“We must ensure we don’t merely drive alcohol consumption underground. That would only lead to a rise in illicit brews and even more dangerous alternatives,” he cautioned.

The church leaders further urged the government to involve communities, religious institutions, and other stakeholders in crafting a united, grassroots-driven strategy to combat drug and alcohol abuse.

“No one can celebrate what is happening to our young people. Families are suffering, and many are in pain because their sons and daughters have been consumed by addiction,” Bishop Omae added.

While religious leaders and some parents’ associations have thrown their weight behind the proposals, the alcohol industry has pushed back, warning that the measures could lead to significant job losses and economic disruption.