The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) took its compliance and enforcement efforts to Mombasa County with a series of crackdowns on alcohol dispensing outlets in the Coastal City as part of ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act (ADCA) 2010.

Leading a multi-agency team, the operations come in the wake of sustained government drug supply suppression initiatives aimed at firmly dealing with the alcohol and drug abuse challenge in the country.

Speaking during the crackdowns, NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa emphasized the importance of strict enforcement of the ADCA 2010, urging proprietors of alcohol dispensing outlets to take proactive measures to ensure their businesses operate within the law.

“Our goal is to protect the public, especially vulnerable groups like the youth, from the dangers of unregulated alcohol outlets. This crackdown will help ensure compliance with the law, curb illicit trade, and reduce the harmful effects of alcohol abuse. By enforcing the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act (ADCA) 2010, authorities can curb illegal sales, reduce the availability of harmful alcoholic products, and ensure that outlets comply with legal standards, ultimately protecting consumers from unsafe practices,” Omerikwa said.

Crackdowns on alcohol dispensing outlets are an effective strategy in the campaign against alcohol and drug abuse in Kenya because they directly target the root of the problem—unregulated and non-compliant establishments.

Many of these outlets sell alcohol to minors, operate without licenses, or stock illicit brews, all of which contribute to rampant alcohol abuse and its associated social and health problems.

“In total, we visited fourteen establishments within Bamburi, Kisauni, and the Central Business District areas of Mombasa County, and cumulatively fifteen suspects were placed in custody for flouting various requirements of the regulations and laws related to alcohol dispensing outlets. All of them are undergoing due court,” added the CEO.

These crackdowns demonstrate the government’s commitment to public health and safety, while promoting responsible consumption which is crucial in NACADA’s broader mission to reduce alcohol and drug abuse across Kenya.