Nairobi moves to tighten alcohol laws in major overhaul to protect families

The Nairobi County Executive, led by  Dr. Anastasia Nyalita, County Executive Committee Member, Business and Hustler Opportunities and  Lydia Mathia, County Chief Officer, Business and Hustler Opportunities, working closely with the Sectoral Committee on Culture and Community Services, held a consultative forum to discuss details of the bill.

Speaking during the session, Dr. Nyalita said the proposed law will significantly strengthen regulation, safeguard public health, and promote responsible trade within the county.

“At the heart of the proposed law is a strong focus on public health and safety. This Bill introduces strong regulations to limit underage access to alcohol, regulate advertising to prevent exposure of minors and enforce stricter compliance measures on traders,” Dr. Nyalita explained.

The legislation also proposes safeguards against misleading promotions and deceptive marketing. Dr. Nyalita noted that consumers must be properly informed about the risks associated with excessive alcohol use, adding that transparent labelling and responsible advertising are key to protecting residents.

Dr. Nyalita further underscored the need for stronger enforcement and public awareness.

“We are strengthening compliance mechanisms to eliminate illegal operators and protect consumers from unsafe products. At the same time, we will invest in awareness and rehabilitation programmes to address alcohol misuse at the community level,” Nyalita said.

The Sectoral Committee and the County Executive emphasized that excessive alcohol consumption continues to strain families and communities, and that tougher controls will help foster safer neighbourhoods and healthier households across the capital. 

Clarence Munga, Chair of the Sectoral Committee on Culture and Member County Assembly (MCA), Kabiro, emphasized the human cost of the current unregulated landscape.

"This is about the safety of our homes. We are not just tightening rules; we are shielding our children from predatory marketing and ensuring that a drink ordered online doesn't turn into a medical emergency. Our neighborhoods must be safe for families again."

Chief Officer Lydia Mathia reiterated that the county is committed to restoring order and dignity in the alcohol sector.

“This Bill is about protecting our families, especially young people, from the harmful effects of alcohol abuse while ensuring that genuine traders operate in a structured and fair environment. We want a responsible and well-regulated sector that supports business without compromising public health. This will streamline licensing processes, enhance accountability, and promote transparency in the sector," Mathia said.

Mr. Myke Rabar, Chair of the Liquor Board, highlighted the focus on "Ethical Trade," noting that illicit brewers currently rob the county of revenue while endangering lives.

"We are leveling the playing field for legitimate, tax-paying businesses by ruthlessly targeting smugglers and counterfeiters," Rabar noted.

County Secretary Godfrey Akumali noted that a major highlight of the Bill is the crackdown on illicit alcohol trade. The proposed law introduces firm measures to eliminate smuggling, counterfeit production, and illegal brewing practices that have previously exposed residents to unsafe products.

Finance County Executive, Charles Kerich maintained that curbing unlawful trade will not only protect consumers but also safeguard legitimate businesses, which have suffered losses due to unfair competition and revenue leakages to the county.

Beyond enforcement, the Bill will promote ethical business practices by setting standards for production, promotion, and distribution. It also provides a framework for public awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programmes to support individuals affected by alcohol abuse.

If passed, the Bill will establish a clearer legislative and institutional framework to regulate the production, manufacture, distribution, and sale; including online sales as well as the consumption of alcoholic drinks within Nairobi City County. It will also usher improved public health outcomes, reduce alcohol-related harm, enhance regulatory oversight and safer communities across Nairobi.