The Kenya Council of Church Alliances and Ministries (KCCAM) has endorsed the government’s proposal to raise the legal drinking age from 18 to 21, terming it a bold and long-overdue move in curbing rampant alcohol and drug abuse.

Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi, KCCAM leaders voiced their support for the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA)’s new proposals, which include banning alcohol sales in supermarkets, restaurants, and public transport vehicles.

Bishop Geoffrey Njuguna, KCCAM’s Head of Governance, highlighted the devastating toll of alcohol abuse:

“We have witnessed first-hand the impact on families, schools, the economy, and the healthcare system. The burden is undeniable.”

The clergy raised concerns about the normalization of drinking among youth, attributing it to aggressive alcohol marketing and easy accessibility. They urged regulators to restrict alcohol advertisements to late-night hours when children are unlikely to be watching.

Bishop Hudson Ndeda, National Chair of the Church Council of Africa-Kenya (CCAK), emphasized the need for enforcement:

“Passing laws is one thing, but implementing and enforcing them is what truly matters.”

KCCAM National Chair Bishop Kepha Omae cautioned that tackling alcohol abuse requires a balance between reducing supply and addressing demand:

“We must avoid pushing alcohol consumption underground, which could increase the spread of illicit brews and more dangerous alternatives.”

The church leaders called for a grassroots-driven strategy involving communities, religious institutions, and other stakeholders to tackle addiction and protect future generations.

However, while parents’ associations and religious leaders support the proposals, industry stakeholders warn of potential job losses and economic disruption if the measures are fully enforced.