Kenyan comedian, scriptwriter, and filmmaker Eddie Butita "has come out against the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA)’s recent proposal to ban online alcohol advertising and restrict the use of celebrities, influencers, and public figures in alcohol marketing." In an "official statement posted on his official social media page on Wednesday, July 30, 2025," Butita called the proposed ban "misguided, uninformed, and exclusionary."
While acknowledging the "valid" intent behind NACADA’s efforts to curb alcohol abuse, Butita's core concern is centered on the Authority's approach. "I am deeply concerned by NACADA’s recent decision to ban influencers and celebrities from marketing alcohol products online," he stated. He argued that the policy "fails to involve key stakeholders, especially content creators."
Butita’s perspective is informed by his firsthand experience within the industry. He explained that "influencers and content creators have played a significant role in promoting responsible alcohol consumption through structured campaigns." Drawing from his own professional background, he added, “As someone who has participated in responsible drinking campaigns, I’ve seen firsthand how strict codes of conduct, like the EABL Diageo Marketing Code (DMC), ensure influencers promote safe, informed messaging." He stressed that these campaigns are "backed by mandatory training and clear rules against promoting irresponsible behaviour,” highlighting a level of professionalism that he believes is being overlooked.
According to Butita, the "real issue is not influencer marketing," but rather "the lack of regulation for the countless unmonitored posts promoting alcohol online, with the rising numbers on the internet that will not stop.” He argued that a blanket ban on trained and regulated creators "only removes structured, responsible messaging from the conversation and ends vital public sensitisation efforts.”
The popular entertainer also voiced deep concern over the lack of consultation, stating, “More worrying is that no consultation was made with creators. We are not pawns in regulatory battles, we are partners in shaping modern communication.” His statement is a powerful call for the creative industry to be recognized as a partner in solving public health challenges.
Butita concluded his statement with a clear and compelling solution. “Instead of bans, NACADA should work with creators and industry players to co-develop ethical, informed guidelines for online alcohol promotion." His final, rallying cry—"Let’s have a seat at the table. Let’s build better, together. Modern problems, modern solutions.”—encapsulates a forward-thinking vision that prioritizes collaboration over blanket bans, positioning the creative community as a vital ally in shaping a healthier, more responsible digital future for Kenya.
