Celebrated Kenyan musician Bien Baraza has voiced strong opposition to the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA)’s latest proposals aimed at regulating alcohol consumption. The measures, which include raising the legal drinking age from 18 to 21, banning alcohol advertising, and restricting alcohol sales near schools and places of worship, have sparked widespread debate across the country.
Bien, known for his outspoken views, described the proposals as “fake morality,” arguing that they could have devastating consequences for industries that rely on advertising and creative expression. In a passionate online post, he questioned the intent behind such regulations, suggesting that they were more performative than practical and did little to address the underlying socioeconomic challenges youth face in Kenya.
He pointed out that the ban on alcohol advertising and online sales, combined with recent restrictions on betting advertisements, would strike a serious blow to the creative and media industries. According to him, such measures could worsen the already dire unemployment crisis among the youth, many of whom depend on these sectors for income and visibility.
“Pretending to care about the very youth they’re killing,” he said, lamenting what he described as hypocrisy in the government’s approach. Bien argued that alcohol and betting are not unique vices to Kenya, and that instead of blanket bans, there should be more focus on creating alternative opportunities and proper education to combat addiction.
In response, NACADA defended its stance, emphasizing that the intent behind the proposed changes is not to censor creativity but to protect public health. In an official statement, the authority clarified that the measures are rooted in data and intended to curb youth addiction and reduce early exposure to alcohol, which reportedly begins as early as 13 years old in some cases.
NACADA highlighted the growing influence of digital alcohol marketing, particularly through influencers and social media, as a key concern. The organization insisted that the goal was to minimize harm by regulating access and limiting exposure, especially among impressionable youth. According to the statement, alcohol abuse is contributing to widespread social issues, including strained family relationships, academic disruption, and a burdened healthcare system.
Despite the backlash from the entertainment sector, NACADA reiterated its commitment to engaging stakeholders in developing solutions that balance economic interests with public safety. They invited influencers and artists to be part of the broader conversation on youth wellness and responsibility.
Away from the policy debate, Bien has also been making headlines for using his platform to speak out on social issues. During a recent performance in London’s Kings Cross, he made a bold statement in support of victims of the Saba Saba protests back in Kenya. The protests, which had turned violent, left several people injured and others dead, prompting widespread concern.
His street performance, hosted by UK-based content creator DJ AG, drew a large, diverse crowd. Fresh from a sold-out show in Paris, Bien’s appearance was part of a growing global spotlight on African artists performing in informal urban settings. He performed popular tracks like “Ma Cherie” and “Extra Pressure,” using the opportunity not only to entertain but also to reflect on political and social injustices back home.
As the conversation around NACADA’s proposals continues, artists like Bien are proving to be key voices in shaping public discourse—blending art with activism and using their influence to question authority while championing creative freedom and youth empowerment.
