Ghana FDA defends celebrity alcohol endorsement ban as public health measure 

GHANA – Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has reaffirmed its stance on restricting celebrities from endorsing alcoholic beverages, insisting that the measure prioritizes public health over commercial interests. 

Speaking at the FDA’s 2024 Annual Stakeholder Meeting in Accra, the Authority’s Director of Legal Services, William Kobla Agbavitor, disclosed that more than 17 criminal cases are currently pending across the FDA’s regional offices.  

He noted that these cases highlight the Authority’s strengthened legal enforcement efforts aimed at safeguarding consumers from unsafe products and harmful practices. 

Addressing the ongoing debate on the alcohol endorsement ban, Agbavitor explained that while some entertainers argue the policy infringes on their freedom of expression and economic rights, the FDA views it as a vital safeguard to reduce youth exposure to alcohol advertising. 

“Celebrities are influencers. Whatever they endorse begins to pick up immediately, even without extensive research. The level of influence they have over the public, especially the youth, makes unrestricted alcohol promotion a danger to public health,” he stated. 

Agbavitor further urged industry players, including businesses and entertainers, to familiarize themselves with regulatory frameworks before engaging in trade or promotional activities. He emphasized that ignorance of the law would not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences. 

In June 2025, Ghana’s Chief Justice upheld the FDA’s directive, ruling that the policy does not contravene the country’s constitution. The ruling reinforced the Authority’s argument that the restriction is necessary to protect young people from harmful advertising practices. 

Public health advocates have welcomed the decision, viewing it as a milestone in protecting vulnerable populations.  

Labram Musah, National Coordinator of the Ghana NCD Alliance, remarked that the ruling highlights the critical need to shield young people from the predatory tactics of the alcohol industry. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates