Tharaka Nithi on the fight against illicit brew

Chuka, Tuesday, June 27, 2023

KNA by Ruth Mumbe (Attachee) and Sharon Gitau

Tharaka Nithi governor Muthomi Njuki has revealed that only 556 newly licensed Liquor traders will operate in the county in an effort to curb illicit brew.

Speaking during world international day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking at Chuka picnic grounds where he held a meeting with the county commissioner, chiefs, assistant chiefs and other law enforcement officers, the governor said that easy access to illicit and counterfeit brew at low prices has spiked the increase of alcoholism in the region.

Njuki warned the licensed bar owners and distributors to be vigilant not to sell and distribute counterfeit alcohol as they will face the wrath of the law.

“Some of the liquor we have banned in the county include Diamond Ice, Metropolitan Gin, Gold Vodka, Smart Vodka, Sunder King as they are second and third alcohol generations and bad for human consumption,” he said

The governor explained the effects of illicit brews on youths which has caused increased risk to their health.

“Both male and female youths are lost in this county due to illicit alcohol,” he said

Njuki promised that soon the County will have a rehabilitation centre at Chuka general hospital.

On his part, Tharaka Nithi county commissioner Wesley Koech stated that all unlicensed bars will be closed down by July.

He also instructed the bar owners to work within the allocated time frame and cautioned wine and spirit outlets not to allow consumption of illicit brews within their premises.

“If you break any of this rules then you risk your licenses being provoked,” he said

Ronald Osongo, a Kenya bureau of Standard (KEBS) representative from Meru said that traders should sell only liquor that has been regulated and vetted by the bureau.  

He noted they work closely with Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to ensure no counterfeit products reach the market.

Courtesy ; K. N. A