Nationwide Crackdown Leads to Closure of 18,650 Alcoholic Outlets in Kenya

KERICHO, Kenya — The national government has taken decisive action against alcohol misuse, shutting down 18,650 establishments across Kenya for lacking proper licenses or holding licenses obtained through irregular means. This move is part of a broader initiative to combat illicit alcohol, drugs, and substance abuse within the country.

According to Kenya News Agency, the closures include 12,150 unlicensed alcoholic pubs and an additional 6,500 establishments that were found to be improperly licensed. Kindiki emphasized the legal stipulation that prohibits the operation of bars and pubs within 300 meters of educational institutions, underscoring the government’s commitment to enforcing this regulation.

During his address in Butuik sub-location, Cheplanget location in Kericho County, Kindiki urged county governments to adhere strictly to the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act when issuing licenses, declaring any licenses granted in violation of this law as invalid. He highlighted the critical nature of the government’s crackdown, framing it as a battle against detrimental influences aiming to undermine the youth of Kenya.

The campaign against illicit alcohol and counterfeit liquor is portrayed as an urgent effort to preserve future generations from the pitfalls of addiction, with Kindiki asserting that the nation’s youth play an essential role in various economic sectors, including agriculture and professional fields.

The context of Kindiki’s statements in Kericho was a condolence visit to the family of the late Louis Rono, former County Commissioner of Lamu County. The Cabinet Secretary, accompanied by Kericho County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo among others, commended the late Rono’s service to the nation and pledged government support for his family.

Further illustrating his commitment to community development, Kindiki spoke of upcoming plans to invest in educational infrastructure and religious institutions within the local area, highlighting the broader scope of his engagement beyond the immediate issue of alcohol control.