The Government has initiated a countrywide assessment of Alcohol Manufacturers. Principal Secretary Internal Security and National Dr. Raymond Omollo announced the formation of a specialized multi-agency team to lead this evaluation.
Dr. Omollo stated that all licenses for second-generation alcohol distillers and manufacturers are temporarily suspended until a comprehensive nationwide vetting is completed.
He further mentioned that the scrutiny will primarily target spirit manufacturers, with more than 29 establishments slated for inspection.
The vetting initiative comes in the wake of a government announcement on March 6, 2024, which categorized the combat against illicit alcohol, drug, and substance abuse as a paramount national security concern, signalling a substantial escalation of efforts against these issues.
“The focus will be on spirit manufacturers, with over 29 premises expected to undergo examination. Already, 35 companies have been identified as having their licenses either previously suspended, cancelled or found dormant.”
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo stated that following this declaration, 25 essential directives were introduced to instigate comprehensive crackdowns, regulations, and enforcement measures throughout the entire supply and demand chain.
PS Omollo emphasized that the verification process requires manufacturers to establish quality control laboratories equipped with specialized testing equipment and qualified personnel. This ensures thorough examination of raw materials and finished products.
“The verification exercise mandates that manufacturers install quality control laboratories equipped with specialized testing apparatus and qualified personnel, ensuring rigorous scrutiny of raw materials and finished products.” PS Omollo said.
Similarly, the implementation of strict product tracking systems is required to monitor alcohol distribution from source to consumer, underscoring the Government’s commitment to public health and safety.
“We urge the public to actively participate in safeguarding our communities by reporting any establishments within their residential areas to relevant authorities.”
The ban on shisha remains enforced, according to the PS, resulting in the immediate closure of 80 establishments found in violation. Compliance operations have been expanded to include the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors, leading to the shutdown of 804 chemists/pharmacies and 761 agrovets.
County security teams have been authorized to enforce the 25 directives, which include shutting down all unlicensed manufacturers, distilleries, agrovets, and chemists within a 10-day period.
The implementation of these directives involves collaboration among various government bodies, including the Department for Trade, the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, NACADA, Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Bureau of Standards, Anti-Counterfeit Authority, and NEMA.
“Furthermore, we are also evaluating the integrity and performance of officers in several Counties having begun the process in Kiambu, Muranga, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Nyandarua, Nakuru, Machakos and Meru Counties.” PS Omollo said.
He added that a similar directive has been issued to all law enforcement officers engaged in the alcohol trade, instructing them to immediately desist from such activities. This action is deemed a conflict of interest and contravenes the Public Officer Ethics Act and the Constitution.
