Nairobi: Soba Ward: Residents of Songhor-Soba Ward in Tinderet Sub-County have appealed to the government to devise strategies for regulating and enhancing the preparation, brewing, and handling of traditional alcoholic drinks. They believe such regulation would offer an affordable beverage option for low-income earners while fostering a more controlled industry.
According to Kenya News Agency, Consumer Safety Advocate Rose Juma noted that raids on traditional brew dens by security agencies have not eradicated the practice. Instead, these actions have driven many operators underground, complicating the authorities’ ability to monitor the quality and safety of the drinks produced. Juma emphasized that traditional brews have been integral to the community’s social and economic fabric for generations. She advocated for a practical regulatory framework, arguing it would be more effective than relying predominantly on arrests, destruction of brewing equipment, and confiscation of products.
Juma suggested that the government should move away from an enforcement-only approach and establish standards to protect consumers while permitting responsible producers to operate legally. She highlighted the need for a system that addresses hygiene, quality, alcohol content, packaging, and consumer age, which would help safeguard people from unsafe drinks.
Community elder Gilbert Bowen pointed out that the high cost of commercially produced alcoholic beverages has made traditional brews appealing to many low-income earners. He argued that denying access to affordable alternatives without addressing economic circumstances is unlikely to curb consumption. Bowen suggested that traditional drinks, which have historically been used during social gatherings and community ceremonies, should be approached with cultural understanding. He proposed that the government collaborate with communities to identify acceptable brewing methods, designated premises, and operating hours, while enforcing strict measures against adulterated drinks and sales to minors.
Jane Cheptoo, a woman leader, voiced concerns that women and families are adversely affected whenever brewing businesses are abruptly closed, as some households rely on the trade for their livelihoods. Cheptoo urged authorities to consider licensing compliant operators and supporting them with training on hygiene, safe fermentation, storage, and responsible marketing. She also called for measures to prevent traditional brews from being adulterated with harmful substances, ensuring consumers are aware of what they are drinking.
Youth leader Maxwell Chumo noted that young people involved in brewing and selling traditional drinks should not simply be treated as criminals, especially if they rely on the activity for their livelihoods. He proposed that the government introduce training and registration programs to integrate operators into a formal system, while creating alternative income-generating opportunities for those wishing to exit the trade. Chumo emphasized that regulation should be accompanied by responsible consumption, advocating for strict action against underage drinking, driving under the influence, and the sale of alcoholic drinks near educational institutions.
The residents believe that incorporating the sector into a regulated framework would provide authorities with better oversight than the current cycle of raids, closures, and clandestine operations, while offering consumers enhanced protection.
