Nigeria and Kenya intensify alcohol regulation and enforcement

African nations are intensifying regulatory actions against unsafe and illicit alcohol. In Nigeria, the Federal Government has adopted the Nigeria Alcohol Policy and its Multisectoral Implementation Plan (2026–2030). This framework aims to reduce alcohol-related harm and protect vulnerable populations through coordinated prevention and regulation.

As part of this initiative, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has ordered a nationwide recall and destruction of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets or plastic bottles smaller than 200ml. Manufacturers have signed an enforcement undertaking to discontinue these prohibited pack sizes, with NAFDAC warning that non-compliance could lead to heavy fines or the permanent closure of facilities.

In Kenya, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has issued warnings regarding counterfeit and unsafe alcoholic products. Recent multi-agency crackdowns in Nairobi resulted in 11 arrests and the seizure of significant quantities of suspected counterfeit beverages. Authorities identified several compliance issues, including fake excise stamps and expired products, as they continue to investigate networks involved in the illicit trade.