November 30th 2024, Nairobi
The Nairobi City County Government Liquor Department convened a community engagement forum at Githogoro Library, Westlands Sub-County. The event sought to foster dialogue between the county, stakeholders and residents on addressing challenges within the liquor industry while promoting responsible business practices and public welfare.
This initiative is part of the county’s broader commitment to building a well-regulated liquor industry that safeguards community well-being. The forum focused on educating the public about the risks of excessive alcohol consumption, the impact of substance abuse, and available resources such as the Sinai Rehabilitation Centre, which offers free outpatient services to support affected individuals.
Liquor Board member Mr. Chapia Chapia Mr. Chapia praised Governor Sakaja for establishing rehabilitation centers like Sinai and Mutoini, emphasizing their vital role in aiding addiction recovery. He assured the public of plans to expand such facilities. He introduced the Sub-County Liquor Committee, tasked with addressing issues like counterfeit licenses and illegal liquor sales. Additionally, he highlighted the upcoming Governor’s youth empowerment programs, including street football tournaments, choirs, and the Sakaja Cup, designed to positively engage young people and curb substance abuse.
Assistant Director of Liquor Licensing, Mr. Raphael Nderui urged liquor outlet owners to comply strictly with licensing regulations, particularly regarding operating hours and the terms of their licenses. He condemned unauthorized practices such as converting wine and spirit shops into bars, warning that such violations would result in business closures. He highlighted the county’s dedication to enforcement and called on residents to work with authorities in identifying non-compliant businesses. “We will ensure compliance through regular inspections, and all outlets operating without valid licenses will be closed,” he assured.
Environmental Officer Westland sub county Maryvine called on stakeholders to take responsibility for keeping the environment clean, urging bar owners to manage waste properly, including sorting garbage. She reminded them of penalties for pollution and addressed noise pollution under the 2009 Noise and Vibration Act, emphasizing compliance. “We will conduct regular audits to ensure a conducive environment,” she stated.
NACADA Regional Manager George Karisa highlighted the dangers of tobacco and emerging drugs, attributing rising youth drug abuse to peer pressure and poor parenting. He urged parents to educate their children, support addicts, and use NACADA’s free counseling and complains reporting hotline 1192. “We remain committed to curbing illegal drug sales and protecting minors,” he affirmed.
The dialogue facilitated by Mr. Mwaka provided an avenue for residents to voice their concerns, including the unchecked sale of counterfeit alcohol, the rise in drug abuse, and the need for stricter enforcement of laws. They urged the county to enhance job creation initiatives to engage the youth constructively and mitigate the risks of substance abuse due to idleness.
One of the key issues discussed was the widespread violation of licensing regulations by liquor outlets. Many establishments in Westlands operate without licenses or contravene the terms of their licenses, such as wine and spirit shops transforming into bars. Additionally, the proliferation of counterfeit alcoholic drinks and illegal substances, including chang’aa and busaa, has severely
impacted the youth in the area. Stakeholders emphasized the need for strict compliance with licensing rules. Assistant Director of Liquor Licensing, Mr. Raphael Nderui, reaffirmed the county’s resolve to close businesses flouting regulations and called on residents to report non-compliant operators.
The forum concluded with a shared commitment to fostering a safe and well-regulated liquor industry while tackling the root causes of substance abuse. The Nairobi City County Government, residents, and stakeholders expressed their determination to work together to ensure compliance with regulations, address the challenges of counterfeit alcohol and illegal drugs, and promote responsible business practices. Through these collaborative efforts, the county aims to build a healthier, safer, and more harmonious community, supporting youth empowerment and addiction recovery initiatives along the way.
In attendance were, Liquor board members, sub county liquor committee members, County enforcement officers, public health officers, Dr. Lydiah from Sinai rehabilitation center, Mr. Moses Deputy County Commissioner Westlands, Mr. Joshua Mwao OCS, OCPD, Mr. Koech Deputy commandant, Area MCA, Chiefs and the general public.
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