New alcohol regulations are likely driven by politics, not harm reduction

The government seeks to ban Influencers, celebrities, and media personalities from promoting or even endorsing alcohol online. [Courtesy]

If there is one thing that has become glaringly obvious under President William Ruto's regime, it is this: Sense does not guide policy anymore - control does. And the latest nationwide crackdown on alcohol confirms it.

On July 30, 2025, the government announced a sweeping ban on alcohol sales across a stunning range of spaces, from supermarkets, restaurants, residential areas, petrol stations, to even online platforms. The sale of alcohol is now prohibited in virtually every public and private setting imaginable. The policy also goes further to muzzle expression. Influencers, celebrities, and media personalities are now banned from promoting or even endorsing alcohol online.