Government Announces Nationwide Vetting Of Alcohol Manufacturers

The Government has launched a Nationwide Vetting of Alcohol Manufacturers.

In a statement, Principal Secretary Internal Security and National Dr. Raymond Omollo said a specialized multi-agency team has been constituted to spearhead the vetting exercise.

The PS said all licenses for second-generation alcohol distillers and manufacturers remain suspended, pending a thorough nationwide vetting process adding that the focus will be on spirit manufacturers, with over 29 premises expected to undergo examination.

“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 vetting follows a declaration made on March 6, 2024, by government where it 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.

According to Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, the 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.

PS Omollo noted that 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.

“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.” PS Omollo said.

Similarly, 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.

The PS also announced that enforcement actions are being taken against bars located in residential areas and near schools as well as establishments operating outside stipulated hours.

PS Omollo reiterated the government’s commitment in eradicating the scourge of drugs and illicit alcohol so as to  provide a safer future for the people of Kenya.

“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, the PS says 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.

Department for Trade, the State Department for Labour and Skills Development, NACADA, Kenya Revenue Authority, Kenya Bureau of Standards, Anti Counterfeit Authority, and NEMA.

“Furthermore, we are also evaluating the integrity and performance of officers in several Counties having begun the process in Kiambu, Muranga, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Nyandarua, Nakuru, Machakos and Meru Counties.” PS Omollo said.

He added that 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.