Why Young Kenyans May Have to Say No to Alcohol

Kenyans under 21 might soon have to say goodbye to their weekend drinking plans. A new proposal by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) is on the table to raise the legal drinking age from 18 to 21—and it is causing quite a buzz across the country.

However, before you call it unfair, here is why this move is a smart one.

Experts say the brain keeps developing until around the age of 25. That means young people who start drinking early are more likely to suffer memory problems, poor decision-making, and even addiction.

In addition, it is not just theory; countries like the United States have been there, done that. Since raising their drinking age to 21, the U.S. has seen fewer alcohol-related crashes, less underage drinking, and fewer alcohol-linked deaths.

Kenya wants to follow that path—and add even stricter rules to the mix.

According to the new proposal, it will not just be about raising the age. Online alcohol sales will be banned. So, no more late-night bottle deliveries to your doorstep. Home deliveries? Cancelled.

Bars and alcohol shops near schools and churches? Not happening anymore. The idea is to make alcohol more complicated to get for underage drinkers, and less visible around places that are supposed to be safe for learning or worship.

For some, this sounds like the end of fun. For others, especially health experts and worried parents, it is a long-overdue change. They argue that alcohol is too easy to access in Kenya.

Young people, even in school uniforms, are often seen buying drinks without being asked for ID.

The government now wants to create safer communities, save lives, and reduce the damage caused by alcohol. Whether the new rules pass or not, one thing is clear: the conversation about alcohol and youth in Kenya is changing fast.

Therefore, if you are under 21 and planning to raise a glass, better check the law first. Cheers might have to wait.