Local administration and political leaders in Murang’a County have raised concern over the rising cases of illicit brew in several towns within Gatanga and Maragua constituencies, warning that the trend is posing serious social, economic and health risks to residents.
The leaders said the proliferation of illegal alcohol outlets has contributed to increased public disturbances, rising health complications, deaths and worsening poverty levels among affected families.
Speaking during an empowerment forum held in Ithanga, Gatanga Constituency, the leaders said the situation has been aggravated by the proximity of neighbouring counties, including Kiambu and Machakos, which they claim have facilitated the cross-border distribution of the illicit brews.
They called for stronger cooperation between Murang’a, Kiambu and Machakos counties to effectively curb the movement and sale of illegal alcohol along the shared borders.
Murang’a County Woman Representative Betty Maina urged the Murang’a County Liquor Licensing Board to exercise greater vigilance when vetting bar operators seeking licenses to ensure they comply with the law and operate responsibly.
“Right now, the county government is in the process of renewing liquor and bar owners’ licences. I urge the governor and the liquor licensing committee to carefully scrutinize those operations,” said Maina.
She expressed concern over the growing number of drinking outlets within small trading centres, saying the trend is contributing to increased alcohol abuse in the county.
“It is unnecessary and detrimental to have up to five bars operating in a single shopping centre. Sadly, in some areas bars and liquor stores are now more than even churches and other places of worship,” she lamented.
Maina noted that stricter checks must be enforced on all bars applying for licenses to ensure they adhere to existing regulations.
“The growth of illegal alcohol sales is a threat to social order, especially for our youth. We must work together across counties to tackle this menace,” she added.
At the same time, the Woman Representative cautioned residents, especially parents, against allowing their children to play or swim near swollen rivers during the ongoing rainy season.
“The rainfall season is here and rivers are swollen. Even adults, especially those who go on drinking sprees near River Chania, must be careful not to risk their lives,” she warned.
“We have already lost several lives to floods in recent weeks and we should not allow more tragedies to occur,” she added.
Nominated Ward Representative Diana Muthoni also raised concern over the rapid increase in the number of bars in the county, some of which she said are operating dangerously close to learning institutions.
“This situation has contributed to rising cases of drunkenness among students and it is putting our young people at risk,” said Muthoni.
She also advised residents living in landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant as heavy rains continue to be experienced in many parts of the country.
“If you notice cracks on the ground or signs of possible landslides, please move to safer ground immediately to avoid calamity,” she advised.
Ithanga OCPD Innocent Mutua said security agencies have intensified operations to combat illicit alcohol as part of the ongoing 100 Days Rapid Response Initiative being implemented in the county.
He noted that the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and the police are working closely to eliminate illegal brew dens and protect young people from substance abuse.
“The NGAO and the police are doing a good job in fighting this menace as we seek to secure the lives of our young people who are wasting away in illegal brew dens,” said Mutua.
He emphasized that coordinated action between neighbouring counties would play a critical role in stopping the illegal trade.
“Only coordinated action between the neighbouring counties of Machakos and Kiambu will help stop this illegal trade and protect our communities,” he added.
By Florence Kinyua
