The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has ordered the removal of billboards promoting alcoholic drinks near learning institutions.
In a statement on Monday, the Authority regretted that there has been increased promotion of alcoholic drinks and alcohol use through billboards erected near learning institutions across the country.
This, it said is observed to be happening, 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.
"In line with the Alcoholic Drinks Promotion Regulations, NACADA is under the relevant provisions of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010 coordinating with relevant stakeholders in the country to enforce measures that will remove all the billboards near learning institutions," it said.
Nacada noted that exposure to outdoor alcohol advertising around schools is associated with youth intentions to use alcohol, adding that the current age of initiation to alcohol use in the country is seven years.
It stated that the enforcement activities will involve all respective national and county government authorities.
The Authority pointed out that schools should be secure environments that foster learning and personal growth, free from any influences that may contribute to harmful behaviours.
"The presence of alcohol advertisements near educational institutions, therefore, undermines these endeavours by normalising the consumption of alcohol and portraying it as an appealing and glamorous choice," it said.
Further, Nacada called on advertising agencies and businesses to exercise social responsibility by not erecting alcohol advertisements near learning institutions.
By doing so, it said, they can help protect youth from the negative impacts of alcohol marketing and support their journey towards healthy and productive futures
