DP Gachagua says illicit brew crackdown bearing fruit as 'thousands saved'

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says implementation of tough measures to curb illicit brews, drugs and substances has borne fruit as thousands of youths have been saved from the vices.

Speaking on Friday during a follow-up meeting to check on the progress of the measures at his official residence in Karen, Nairobi, the Deputy President said the whole-of-government approach has been instrumental in the enforcement of the measures.

“We have done quite well. I want to commend everyone for the action they have taken to boost the government’s efforts. There has been a lot of cooperation from the respective agencies and law enforcement agencies,” he said.

The DP said reports from various parts of the country indicated that sale of the poisonous drinks has dropped, promising intensification of the measures to rid the country of the menace.

“Things are much better now. We will continue with the engagement to review the progress we are making in this fight,” he added. 

The comprehensive 25 measures have been rolled out since the beginning of March and are aimed at boosting the ongoing campaign against the vices being spearheaded by the Deputy President.

The meeting was attended by Trade Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, Attorney General Justin Muturi, Solicitor General Shadrack Mose, Judiciary Representative Ase Opondo, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, and Anti-Counterfeit Authority Chief Executive Officer Robi Njoroge.

Also present were; Kenya Veterinary Board Chief Executive Officer Mary Agutu, Kenya Bureau of Standards Chief Executive Officer Esther Ngari, Deputy Director of Public Prosecution Dorcas Oduor, Pharmacy and Poisons Board Chief Executive Officer Fred Siyoi, KRA Deputy Commissioner in charge of Enforcement Mutembei Nyagah and other senior officials.