The National Authority for Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) has linked rising youth alcohol use to pandemic restrictions, accusing parents of exposing children to alcohol during 2020's lockdowns.
Chairperson Mabel Imbuga stated that closed bars and restricted gatherings created new avenues for youth access, with online liquor sales becoming a major concern. 'Young people can now order alcohol under false pretenses through digital platforms,' she said, noting deliveries often picked up away from home.
Nacada CEO Victor Okioma highlighted reports of bars circumventing lockdown rules by hosting gatherings in hidden premises. The authority's June 26 2020 Facebook event, marking International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, emphasized alcohol as the most prevalent substance of abuse among Kenyan youth.
Data from the event showed 23.4% of students reported alcohol use, surpassing 17% for khat and 16.1% for prescription drugs. Nacada reiterated collaboration with law enforcement to address pandemic-related violations, warning that 'the law will catch up with those perpetuating these wrongdoings.'
The authority also noted challenges faced by restaurants complying with curfew rules while balancing economic pressures. Meanwhile, the Bars, Hotels and Liquor Traders Association urged for expanded operations to support economic recovery during the crisis.
