Meru: The Meru County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board will not license bars and other alcoholic drink outlets operating about 300 meters from schools starting this year. This aligns with a directive from the Ministry of Interior about three months ago ordering the closure of such alcoholic drinks outlets.
According to Kenya News Agency, addressing journalists on Tuesday, the Board's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Mbabu Muguna, stated that this measure is meant to protect learners, especially those below 18 years, from being lured into alcohol consumption out of curiosity, which has been a common occurrence among many learners. Dr. Muguna emphasized that the Board would be very strict in issuing liquor licenses this year to prevent the licensing of such premises.
He noted that some bar owners have used dubious means to acquire licenses but warned that if any such licenses are issued, the Board would not hesitate to cancel them or even close down the premises. Dr. Muguna called for concerted efforts between the Board and National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), especially chiefs and their assistants, to ensure the directive is implemented effectively.
Dr. Mbabu highlighted that administrators are an integral part of the inspection committee that approves bars and alcoholic drinks outlets for licensing, and he urged them to collaborate with other committee members to ensure such bars are not approved. He pointed out that bars near learning institutions often compromise the safety of learners, particularly during school hours and extracurricular activities.
Dr. Muguna expressed concerns about alcohol-related incidents, such as violence, accidents, and disturbances, spilling over into school grounds and jeopardizing the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors. According to a mapping conducted by the State Department for Basic Education, Meru County has 63 bars, local brews, wines, and spirits outlets close to schools. However, Dr. Muguna believes that the actual number is higher, as some premises closer to learning institutions were not included in the list.