The government has started vetting alcohol manufacturers in the country in a move aimed at weeding out the sale of illicit brew, PS Omollo has said.
In a statement, PS Omollo who chairs a specialised multi-agency team spearheading the vetting exercise said the verification phase commenced Monday, March 18, 2024.
The decision to vet alcohol manufacturers was reached after the ministry held a consultative meeting on March 12, 2024, at the GSU Training School.
The assembly was attended by 55 out of 64 alcoholic drinks manufacturers.
"The assembly served as a platform to brief on the imminent vetting process of their licenses and operations, emphasizing the government's resolve in tackling this crisis," PS Omollo.
PS Omollo added that the focus will be on spirit manufacturers, with over 29 premises expected to undergo examination.
The verification team comprises members from the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, the Office of the Deputy President, the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, the State Department for Trade, the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, NACADA, Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Bureau of Standards, Anti Counterfeit Authority, and NEMA.
During the meeting, PS omollo said they emphasised the government's resolve in tackling the crisis.
"Currently, all licenses for second-generation alcohol distillers and manufacturers remain suspended, pending a thorough nationwide vetting process," the PS added.
He said that already, 35 companies have been identified as having their licenses either previously suspended, cancelled or found dormant.
"The verification exercise mandates that manufacturers install quality control laboratories equipped with specialized testing apparatus and qualified personnel, ensuring rigorous scrutiny of raw materials and finished products," he said.
According to the PS, the implementation of strict product tracking systems is required to monitor alcohol distribution from source to consumer, underscoring the government's commitment to public health and safety.
He said that enforcement actions are also being taken against bars located in residential areas and near schools as well as establishments operating outside stipulated hours.
The PS announced that 6,931 premises have been closed and alcoholic stocks confiscated.
"We urge the public to actively participate in safeguarding our communities by reporting any establishments within their residential areas to relevant authorities."
The PS added that alcohol and drug abuse poses a significant threat to the safety of people and the security of Kenyans.
On March 6, 2024, the government declared the fight against illicit alcohol, drug, and substance abuse a top national security threat.
The declaration was followed by the introduction of 25 key directives aimed at initiating crackdowns, regulations, and enforcement actions across the entire demand and supply chain.