By G, KNA
Residents in Mosop Sub-County have intensified calls to curb the spread of second-generation liquor, urging for stricter enforcement and sustained collaboration between government agencies and the community.
The concerns were aired by residents of Ndalat Ward during a public participation forum held at Lemook Centre, convened by the County Government of Nandi through the Department of Trade, Tourism, Industrialization and Enterprise Development.
The forum brought together community members, local administrators, and security officials to deliberate on the growing prevalence of illicit alcohol in the area and its negative impact on youth. Residents said the increased availability of second-generation liquor has contributed to rising cases of depression, erratic behaviour, and social withdrawal among young people.
They linked the vice to declining productivity, family instability, and heightened vulnerability, urging authorities to act decisively before the situation worsens. The meeting followed a formal request from the public seeking government intervention to address the problem.
Speaking during the session, the Director of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Directorate, Mr. William Melly, commended residents for utilizing the public participation framework to channel their concerns. “Public engagement remains central in shaping policies that respond to community needs. The County Government of Nandi is committed to structured regulation of the alcoholic drinks sector,” he said.
Mr. Melly noted that the county maintains an approved list of alcoholic products permitted for sale and warned that any licensed outlet found stocking unapproved liquor risks immediate revocation of its operating licence. He added that issuance of 2026 licences to compliant premises is ongoing, underscoring the county’s commitment to accountability and adherence to the law.
Nandi North Deputy County Commissioner, Mr. William Kingi, said the National Government will continue to support county-led regulatory efforts through enhanced surveillance and enforcement. He emphasised that fighting second-generation liquor requires collective responsibility, calling on residents to cooperate with enforcement agencies by sharing information on illegal activities.
Representatives from the County Government of Uasin Gishu and the National Government also attended the forum, highlighting the importance of intergovernmental collaboration in addressing cross-border distribution of illicit brews.
County officials reiterated that strengthened surveillance, structured licensing, and sustained public participation will be key to curbing the vice and restoring stability among youth in Mosop and the wider Nandi North region. They urged continued cooperation between citizens, administrators, and security agencies to ensure lasting solutions to the challenge of illicit alcohol.