TESO NORTH — In a significant operation targeting illicit brews, drugs, and substance abuse, over 20 premises have been shut down in Teso North Sub County, as per the local authorities. This move comes as part of an intensified effort to comply with national directives aimed at curbing illegal activities related to alcohol and drugs.
According to Kenya News Agency, the crackdown was initiated following orders from the Cabinet Secretary of the Interior, leading to a comprehensive search and closure of unlicensed establishments, including bars, pharmacies, and agro-vets. Specifically, the operation resulted in the closure of seven bars, thirteen pharmacies, and six agro-vet stores found to be operating without the necessary legal permits.
Wambura emphasized the increased patrol efforts across the sub-county, aimed at reducing substance abuse and aligning with the broader governmental goal of protecting future generations. He highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the security teams, including the evasion tactics employed by some business owners who operate nocturnally to escape law enforcement.
The DCC has issued a directive to local chiefs and assistant chiefs, mandating that all operators of drinking establishments must possess valid licenses and adhere to regulations, such as maintaining a minimum distance of 300 meters from educational institutions.
However, the security team in Busia, where Teso North is located, encounters significant challenges due to the porous nature of the border with Uganda. Wambura pointed out that innovative smuggling techniques are being utilized, notably by boda boda (motorbike taxi) operators, who assist in transporting illicit brews such as chang’aa and ethanol across the border, particularly through the river Malakisi and the Moding area. Despite these obstacles, Wambura assured that the police are maintaining high vigilance and are preparing to prosecute those caught in violation of the law.
Since the initiation of this crackdown, over 30 individuals have been brought before the Amagoro law court for failing to meet the legal standards set by the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act. Additionally, the implicated pharmacy and agro-vet owners have been given a 30-day ultimatum to present their licenses or face permanent closure of their businesses, a mandate set forth by the Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board (KPPB).
MARAGUA — Following the recent presidential directive, the Murang’a Water and Sanitation Company (Muwasco) has successfully initiated a significant water connectivity project in Maragua, promising enhanced access to clean water for homesteads and public institutions alike. This initiative is in line with President William Ruto’s announcement last month regarding the management of the Maragua Dam, aiming to address longstanding water scarcity issues in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, since the completion of the Sh. 1 billion Maragua Dam in early 2023, over 1,000 homesteads have been connected to a clean water supply. The company has set an ambitious target of connecting over 20,000 homes by June this year. This move comes as a relief to the local residents who have faced water access challenges for years. The effort to install water pipes and improve infrastructure aims to extend the reach of clean water services to more homes and educational institutions within the area.
Residents and local institutions, such as the Murang’a Technical Institute and Maragua Level 4 Hospital, have praised Muwasco’s efforts. The availability of clean, steady water supply is expected to significantly improve hygiene standards and reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases. Robison Wachira, Principal of Murang’a Technical Training Institute, emphasized the impact of this development, highlighting the benefits for students and the neighboring community, particularly in sectors like hospitality and plumbing where water is essential.
The community’s response to the new water connections has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents like Anne Njeri expressing gratitude for the convenience and health benefits provided by the accessible water supply. This initiative has not only resolved the previous management disputes between Muwasco and other local water bodies but also set a benchmark for water coverage expansion in the area. Despite Maragua Sub County’s historically low water coverage rate, this project marks a significant step toward achieving the county’s overall goal of expanding water access.