Alcohol and drug abuse pose a significant threat to the safety of people and security of Kenya in the form of deaths from adulterated alcohol, reduction in productivity, health complications and fueling organized crime networks, contributing to instability and violence within our communities.

On March 6, 2024, the Government elevated the fight against illicit alcohol, drug, and substance abuse by declaring it a top national security threat, marking a significant intensification of its efforts against the vices.

This declaration was followed with the introduction of 25 key directives aimed at initiating sweeping crackdowns, regulations, and enforcement actions across the entire demand and supply chain.

Building upon these initiatives, a consultative meeting was held on March 12, 2024, at the GSU Training School, 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.

A specialized multi-agency team that I Chair has since been constituted to spearhead the vetting exercise, and we initiated the verification phase, effective Monday, 18th March, 2024.

This team comprises of 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. 8812892

Currently, all licenses for second-generation alcohol distillers and manufacturers remain suspended, pending a thorough nationwide vetting process.

The focus will be on spirit manufacturers, with over 29 premises expected to undergo examination. 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.

Additionally, 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.

Enforcement actions are also being taken against bars located in residential areas and near schools as well as establishments operating outside stipulated hours.

Consequently, 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 prohibition on shisha also remains in effect, with violations having led to immediate shutdowns of 80 offending establishments.

Compliance operations have, similarly, been extended to the pharmaceutical and agricultural sectors, resulting in the closure of 804 chemists/pharmacies and 761 agrovets.

County security teams have been empowered to implement the 25 directives including shutting down all unlicensed manufacturers, distilleries, agrovets, and chemists within 10 days.

Furthermore, we are also evaluating the integrity and performance of officers in several Counties having begun the process in Kiambu, Muranga, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Nayndarua, Nakuru, Machakos and Meru Counties.

An equivalent directive has been given to all law enforcement officers involved in the alcohol trade to immediately cease, as this constitutes a conflict of interest and is in violation of the Public Officer Ethics Act and our Constitution.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to eradicating the scourge of drugs and illicit alcohol and following the completion of the exercise, a detailed update will be made available to the public.

Through this collaborative whole of government approach, we aim to tackle this complex issue for a safer future for the people of Kenya.