The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has warned social media influencers and digital content creators about alcohol and drug use promotion.
In a notice dated Tuesday, September 23, NACADA stated that a section of influencers post content on their social media platforms that promotes or normalizes substance use among the youth.
“Such content, often directed at young audiences, poses a significant threat to the fight against alcohol and drug abuse, while undermining the efforts to protect vulnerable groups, especially children, from these harmful influences, the notice read in part," part of the statement by NACADA read.
NACADA now wants influencers to desist from any forms of displays or propagation of drugs, reminding members of the public that this is not only irresponsible but also illegal under Kenyan law.
It based its decision on the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010 and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, of 1994, which prohibits advertisement or promotion of drug use.
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The Authority stated that such laws attract some penalties and that anyone found promoting substance abuse through digital platforms risks the arm of the law.
It also called on influencers to be responsible for what they post on their platforms.
"We call on all social and digital influencers to take responsibility for the content they create and share. As role models to millions, your influence has the power to shape behaviors, especially among the youth," the Authority said.
NACADA further called on parents and guardians to monitor what their children view on social media since most of the platforms lack adequate safeguards against exposing young audiences to harmful content.
"Parents should exercise control by enabling parental control settings, educating children about the dangers of drug use, and reporting any harmful content to relevant authorities," the statement adds.
NACADA urged social media platforms and content creators to adhere to ethical standards that promote healthy behaviors among audiences, noting, "Social media platforms, as well as content creators themselves, have a greater responsibility to adhere to ethical standards that help normalize and support healthy behaviors."
The warning follows NACADA's arrest of fifteen suspects on September 5 during a crackdown on alcohol outlets in Mombasa County for violating the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act 2010.
NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa said that the operations focused on establishments in Bamburi, Kisauni, and the CBD for offenses such as operating without licenses and selling alcohol to minors.
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