By REBECCA WANGARI
Bar owners in Murang’a County have urged the government to address the source of illicit and counterfeit alcohol, warning that the proliferation of unsafe drinks poses a serious public health threat.
The traders accused some government agencies of failing to effectively enforce regulations, allowing illegal manufacturers and distributors to continue operating despite the risks to consumers.
Led by their chairperson, Joseph Njuguna, the traders said they were willing to work with the government to eliminate counterfeit liquor but lacked the capacity to independently verify the quality and authenticity of products supplied to their businesses.
Addressing journalists in Murang’a, Njuguna said enforcement agencies should focus on dismantling illegal manufacturing and distribution networks rather than concentrating on raids targeting bars.
“Recent enforcement operations in Murang’a have revealed the continued existence of illegal alcohol manufacturing and distribution networks, highlighting the threat these criminal activities pose to public health and safety,” said Njuguna.
He said authorities had recovered industrial chemicals allegedly used in manufacturing dangerous alcoholic drinks, alongside counterfeit tax stamps used to facilitate their distribution.
“The authorities have recovered industrial chemicals used in the production of dangerous alcoholic drinks and fake tax stamps for distribution, and we are not able to authenticate these products without assistance from the relevant agencies,” he added.
Njuguna said raids targeting bars were misplaced if authorities failed to address the supply chains responsible for introducing counterfeit products into the market.
He expressed concern over reports of deaths and serious illnesses in parts of the Central region involving people who allegedly consumed illicit alcohol.
“We are deeply devastated by the impact of illicit alcohol on young people, families and communities. Every life lost through the consumption of unsafe alcohol is one too many,” he said.
Another trader, Jane Kamau, said bar owners were ready to collaborate with national and county governments to eradicate counterfeit alcohol and protect consumers.
“We urge the government to work closely with us so that together we can eliminate counterfeit alcohol, protect lives, safeguard legitimate businesses and secure a healthier future for our communities,” said Kamau.
She called for tougher penalties against illegal manufacturers, saying counterfeit and illicit alcohol had no place in legitimate businesses or society.
“We firmly believe that counterfeit and illicit alcohol has no place in our business and society, and we urge the government to impose stiffer penalties on the manufacturers,” she added.
The traders spoke as the government renewed its campaign against illicit alcohol, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki ordering fresh inspections of alcohol manufacturing premises.
Kindiki directed the Ministry of Interior and relevant regulatory agencies to conduct thorough re-inspections to ensure manufacturers comply with the standards and regulations governing their operations.
