The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has announced a nationwide crackdown on bars and liquor joints around schools.
In a statement on May 27 the authority said the crackdown is anchored on the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010, which stipulates that such establishments must be situated no less than three hundred (300) meters away from any nursery, primary, secondary or other educational institutions serving individuals below the age of eighteen.
“NACADA hereby announces a Nationwide Crackdown aimed at enforcing regulations regarding the placement of bars and other alcohol dispensing outlets in proximity to educational institutions or areas catering to individuals below the age of eighteen,” read part of the statement.
The crackdown will be executed in collaboration with relevant National and County Government Agencies and seeks to ensure strict compliance with legal requirements about the positioning of such outlets.
NACADA to Close Bars Near Learning Institutions
According to NACADA the crackdown serves as a reminder to all players, in the community, of their role in enhancing the safe development and wellbeing of our children.
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The authority further warned of a penal liability that is provided for any person who sells alcoholic drinks in prohibited locations.
“The Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010 further provides a penal liability for any person who sells alcoholic drinks in prohibited locations in the nature of a fine not exceeding five hundred thousand shillings, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or to both,” the statement further read.
Billboards Promoting Alcohol Near Schools to be Removed
The directive comes a week after the authority ordered the removal of billboards promoting alcoholic drinks near learning institutions.
NACADA said that there has been increased promotion of alcoholic drinks and alcohol use through billboards erected near learning institutions across the country.
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It revealed that the act has been ongoing despite the law proscribing advertisements that are misleading or deceptive or that are likely to create an erroneous impression about the characteristics, health effects, health hazards, or social effects of the alcoholic drink.
The authority noted that exposure to outdoor alcohol advertising around schools is associated with youth intentions to use alcohol noting that the current age of initiation to alcohol use in the country is seven years.
Furthermore, NACADA emphasized that schools should be secure environments that foster learning and personal growth, free from any influences that may contribute to harmful behaviors.
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