The Government of Kenya will on Wednesday unveil the much-anticipated 2025 National Alcohol Policy, a bold and people-centered framework aimed at strengthening the country’s fight against alcohol and substance abuse.
The policy, developed by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), is expected to redefine Kenya’s approach to prevention, treatment, and recovery from alcohol and drug-related harms. It places particular emphasis on vulnerable groups, especially the youth, who continue to bear the brunt of rising substance abuse trends.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa stated that the new policy represents a shift towards evidence-based and community-driven responses, with a clear roadmap focused on prevention, accessible treatment, and long-term recovery.
“This policy prioritizes early prevention, expands access to treatment, and strengthens support systems for recovery and reintegration,” said Dr. Omerikwa. “Our goal is to foster a sober and productive society by targeting root causes and ensuring inclusive, sustained interventions.”
Key Pillars of the Policy
The 2025 National Policy on Alcohol, Drugs, and Substance Abuse is structured around several core pillars:
- Enforcement of Alcohol Regulations: Strengthening existing laws to curb the availability and illicit production of alcohol, particularly in high-risk regions.
- Stronger Prevention Strategies: Expanding public education campaigns in schools, workplaces, and local communities to deter alcohol and drug use.
- Enhanced Treatment and Rehabilitation: Improving access to quality treatment and rehabilitation services, especially in underserved areas.
- Support for Reintegration: Providing mechanisms for individuals recovering from addiction to reintegrate into society through counseling, vocational training, and family support.
The policy also aims to improve coordination between government ministries, counties, law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and religious institutions, ensuring a unified national response.
According to recent NACADA reports, young people aged 15–35 are the most affected demographic when it comes to alcohol and substance abuse in Kenya. The policy is therefore tailored to address youth-specific challenges, including peer pressure, unemployment, mental health issues, and lack of access to education and recreation.
The policy also seeks to curb the proliferation of second-generation brews and counterfeit alcoholic products, which have caused numerous deaths and health complications across the country in recent years.
The policy aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and broader public health objectives, by acknowledging substance abuse as a cross-cutting issue affecting economic productivity, education outcomes, health care costs, and social stability.
“This is not just a health policy, it’s a social and economic development strategy,” said a senior official at the Ministry of Health. “Reducing substance abuse directly translates to better school performance, fewer hospital admissions, safer communities, and a stronger workforce.”
The launch event, scheduled to take place in Nairobi, will bring together stakeholders from across the public and private sectors, including health professionals, civil society, youth representatives, and members of Parliament.
Following the unveiling, NACADA will roll out an implementation framework supported by regional sensitization campaigns, data collection efforts, and training for health workers and law enforcement officers.
The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the policy translates into action, with clear benchmarks for evaluating impact and accountability.
As Kenya grapples with the social and economic toll of alcohol and drug abuse, the 2025 National Alcohol Policy marks a significant step toward lasting change, anchored in prevention, compassion, and resilience.
Written By Rodney Mbua
