MP Kibagendi warns about closing down legitimate bars to fight illicit brew menace

Kitutu Chache South Member of Parliament (MP) Anthony Kibagendi has termed the closure of bars as a measure to fight illicit brews as inappropriate.

“Closing legitimate businesses is inappropriate. what we need is enforcement in doing inventories on what is sold in these pubs,” he said about an order to close bars in Kirinyaga County after illicit brew claimed more than 17 lives. 

In a panel interview on Daybreak, he also acknowledged the efforts by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his spouse in advocating against alcohol abuse in Mt Kenya region.

He continued to mention the effects of substance abuse such as infertility issues, broken families, and people neglecting their jobs. Issues that should not be tackled by the government alone.

“When it comes to creating awareness, we cannot leave this to the government alone. It is something that all of us need to get involved in.”

On the same platform, Ahadi Trust CEO Stanely Kamau advised county governments to have inventories of bars and the drinks that they sell in their establishments.

“I would suggest that If I own a bar, I should have an inventory of the drinks I sell, from EABL, from KWAL, or any other manufacturer. If I am going to add any drinks from outside the country, whether it's imported or being manufactured in the country I should be able to add to the inventory,” said Kamau.

Just like Kibagendi, Kamau argued that closing bars affects legit businessmen, whereas the dens selling illegal brew are still operational.

"Closing anything does not add any value because these things are not registered," he said. 

He also advocated for joint efforts from the Government and other stakeholders in fighting the vice.

Dr. Yvonne Olando, the Director of Prevention and Treatment Programs at the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA)said that the incident in Kirinyaga was regrettable.

“We have had issues with illicit brews in the country but we liked how it came out this time that if you are brewing illicit brews there will be consequences,” said Yvonne.

Yvonne added that education on the impact of the consumption of illicit brew should be prioritised. 

She said NACADA aims at establishing more regional offices next month to reach more people.

The authority, she added, lacks funding and personnel, but is using community programs and partnering with civil society organizations to build capacity and address the issue.