Narok:Human rights activists are raising concerns over the increasing number of bars and substandard liquor outlets in Narok County, highlighting the growing issue of illicit brew production and consumption in the area.
According to Kenya News Agency, the activists are calling on security agencies and the county government to intensify efforts against the sale and consumption of illicit alcohol and to close illegal liquor outlets. Daniel Mwangi Kamau, National Chairman of the Kenyans Against Human Rights Violations lobby group, has formally requested authorities to revoke licenses of bars violating alcohol sale regulations in the county.
Kamau expressed concern over the proliferation of bars without the required documentation, selling substandard liquor that endangers consumers. He emphasized collaboration with national and county governments to combat harmful alcohol to protect future generations, urging regular inspections to ensure only licensed outlets operate.
He praised National Government Administration Organization officials and residents for their efforts in tackling alcoholism, though he warned of a lost generation due to youth involvement with illicit brews, driven by joblessness and depression. Kamau highlighted reports of residents selling household items for alcohol money and accused illicit brew consumers of neglecting parental responsibilities.
In response to the crisis, Kamau revealed plans to engage regional administrators, police, the county government, and Nacada in crackdowns against illicit brews, aiming to shut down chang’aa brewing dens and hold perpetrators accountable.
Ruth Silundu from Suswa announced intentions to collaborate with the Narok county government for a fresh licensing process starting January 1, to root out unscrupulous traders. She advocated for innovative enforcement tactics, such as drone surveillance of brewing sites, and condemned authorities accepting bribes from offenders.
Silundu described severe side effects of the illicit brews, noting that users often neglect personal hygiene and education, with young people dropping out of school. She warned of the detrimental impact on future leadership and highlighted the dangers of potent alcohol produced with ethanol, leading to addiction and mental health issues.
She urged parents and communities to actively participate in preventing drug abuse, emphasizing the need for cooperation between teachers, local administrators, and law enforcement to address the problem in schools.
