The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has announced plans to crack the whip on content creators and social media influencers promoting the use of drugs.
In a press statement, the Authority disclosed that a section of content creators and digital media influencers were posting content that promoted the use of drugs online, content that NACADA claimed targeted young Kenyans.
The Authority revealed that such content posed a threat to the fight against alcohol and drug abuse while undermining the efforts to protect vulnerable groups, especially children, from these harmful influences.
According to NACADA, promoting, advertising, or encouraging drug use was illegal and punishable by law under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, of 2010.
“NACADA implores influencers and content creators against using their platforms to normalize or glorify drug use,” the Authority announced.
“The Authority reminds the public that promoting drugs and substance use through social media is not only irresponsible but is also a violation of the law.”
Parents and guardians were directed to closely monitor the type of content their children consumed online, particularly the content from social media platforms.
"Parents should exercise control by enabling parental control settings, educating children about the dangers of drug use, and reporting any harmful content to relevant authorities," NACADA stated.
"Social media platforms and digital content creators have a responsibility to uphold ethical standards and promote healthy behaviours among their audiences," the Authority added.
The latest announcement by NACADA comes amidst a heightened crackdown by the Authority on illegal alcohol outlets across the country.
On September 5, a multi-agency team consisting of officials from NACADA and the national police service arrested 15 individuals for running an illegal alcohol outlet.
The operations which were carried out in Bamburi, Kisauni, and the Central Business District, targeted establishments flouting regulations under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act (ADCA) 2010.
NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa who spoke to the press after the crackdown revealed that the 15 individuals were arrested for operating the outlet without requisite licences and for selling alcohol to minors.
