NACADA Launches Crackdown on Drug-Promoting Content Creators

24, Sep 2024 / 2 min read/ By Livenow Africa

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has unveiled plans to crack down on content creators and social media influencers who promote drug use.

In a recent press release, the authority pointed out that some influencers were posting content that encouraged drug use, particularly targeting young Kenyans. NACADA highlighted that such content endangers its ongoing efforts to combat alcohol and drug abuse and poses a risk to vulnerable groups, including children.

NACADA emphasized that promoting, advertising, or glorifying drug use is illegal under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010, and offenders could face legal consequences.

"NACADA urges influencers and content creators to refrain from normalizing or glorifying drug use on their platforms," the Authority warned.

"Promoting drug use through social media is not just irresponsible but also a breach of the law," it added.

NACADA also called on parents and guardians to actively monitor their children's online content consumption, urging them to use parental control features, educate their children about the dangers of drug use, and report harmful content to the authorities.

"Social media platforms and digital influencers have a duty to uphold ethical standards and encourage healthy behaviors among their followers," the statement continued.

This announcement follows a recent crackdown on illegal alcohol outlets across the country. On September 5, NACADA and the national police arrested 15 individuals in Bamburi, Kisauni, and the Central Business District for operating without proper licenses and selling alcohol to minors.

NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa, commenting after the arrests, reiterated the agency's commitment to enforcing the law and protecting the public from harmful influences.

 

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