Murang’a:A men’s lobby group from Mathioya sub-county has taken a prominent role in a renewed campaign against illicit alcohol, which they claim exacerbates family issues and undermines the social and economic wellbeing of households.
According to Kenya News Agency, the group, known as Boy Child Peace Ambassadors, is urging residents to tackle the production, sale, and consumption of illegal alcohol. They argue that community involvement is crucial to the fight, as government efforts alone are insufficient.
Dr. Stanley Kamau, founder and CEO of Ahadi Kenya Trust, emphasized during a sensitization forum the importance of men’s active involvement in addressing alcohol abuse. He noted the severe impact on families, including poverty and family breakdown, and called for increased public awareness efforts by government agencies like NACADA.
Kamau advocated for preventative measures and education over reactive responses to alcohol addiction. He also stressed the need for stricter enforcement of bar regulations to reduce alcohol availability, urging men to avoid harmful drinking and support those struggling with dependency.
Mathioya Senior Chief Sammy Mwangi encouraged local residents to report illegal alcohol activities and emphasized the role of community leaders in monitoring and alerting authorities. Mathioya Deputy County Commissioner Riungu Laikera highlighted third-generation alcohol as a significant local issue, underscoring the need for community-led solutions alongside government enforcement.
The personal impact of alcohol abuse was shared by Gladys Njeri, a widow whose husband died from illicit alcohol consumption. She called for stronger enforcement against unlicensed bars to protect families from the hazards of alcohol abuse.
Community leaders in Mathioya recognize that addressing alcohol issues requires prevention, education, responsible parenting, and support for affected individuals. The involvement of men in this initiative aims to encourage early intervention and reporting of illegal activities, fostering stability in affected families.
