KIRINYAGA – The Kirinyaga County Assembly has publicly addressed the grave impact of illicit brews within the county, following a tragic incident in Kangai Village that resulted in 23 fatalities and left five individuals with visual impairments. This distressing event has highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive action against the consumption and distribution of dangerous alcohol products in the area.
According to Kenya News Agency, the County Assembly is in the process of finalizing the Kirinyaga County Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023. This legislation aims to tackle the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol comprehensively while also introducing support programs for those battling alcohol dependency. The Assembly’s efforts come as a direct response to the recent tragedy, which emphasized the critical nature of the alcohol issue within the county.
Murimi expressed his condolences to the families affected by the Kangai Village incident and wished a speedy recovery to those still hospitalized. He highlighted the Assembly’s commitment to collaborating with law enforcement, the County Health Department, and community leaders from Kangai Ward to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the incident and prevent future occurrences.
The Speaker assured that the Assembly would intensify its efforts to foster responsible drinking habits and support law enforcement agencies in the enforcement of alcohol-related laws. He also urged consumers to remain cautious of unusually cheap alcohol brands, which could potentially be harmful.
Echoing Murimi’s sentiments, Deputy Speaker Njenaro Jamumo described the incident as a wake-up call for law enforcement to intensify their efforts against the production and consumption of illicit brews. The Assembly’s proactive stance aims to safeguard the community from the dangers of unregulated alcohol, ensuring such tragedies do not recur.
OUAGADOUGOU – Burkina Faso’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré, emphasized the need for countries to earn respect on the international stage, rather than negotiate for it. This statement was part of an extensive interview set to be published in the state daily, Sidwaya.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Traoré provided insights into Burkina Faso’s current standing in the international community. He asserted that respect on the global scene is a result of a country’s actions and the ideals it upholds. The interview, which Traoré gave to the Journal de tous les Burkinabè, touched on several key aspects of Burkinabè diplomacy, including the diversification of bilateral relations and the state of cooperation with countries like Ivory Coast and France. The discussion also covered the withdrawal of member countries from the ECOWAS Alliance of Sahel States.
Traoré expressed his belief that Burkina Faso’s diplomatic approach has garnered more respect internationally. He addressed the issue of stereotypical perceptions that have long influenced the country’s image abroad, suggesting that these ‘clichés’ have been crafted over years by certain international partners, affecting relationships with others. He described this image as ‘devaluing,’ highlighting that it often overshadows the nation’s true expertise, capacity, and potential.
The Foreign Minister underscored his commitment to reshaping Burkina Faso’s international image. He aims to rebrand the country as a Sahelian nation of significant capacity and one that should be taken seriously on the global stage. This effort is part of a broader initiative to enhance Burkina Faso’s diplomatic presence and influence.