The Meru county government has shut down 1,800 bars over the past two years for non compliance with regulations.
Alcoholics and Drinks Control Board CEO Mbaabu Muguna said the bars were closed after flouting rules, adding that two years ago the number of ‘watering holes’ had hit 4,000.
“We have closed the bars in efforts to minimize alcohol consumption and currently there are 2,200 operating with South Imenti where there is low consumption of illicit brews leading, followed by North Imenti constituency,” he said.
“During our patrols we look out for bars and restaurants operating in filthy outlets. We also consider their size and type of alcohol they sell and in what conditions,” Muguna added.
He said some of the bars that were closed were close to schools.
“In some bars the owners were selling illicit brews and during one of our raids we were shocked to find a dead snake in a drum containing the illicit brew which patrons were imbibing oblivious to the health risk,” he said.
“Bottled alcohol should also have a KEBS seal with an expiry date and we encourage people to consume alcohol in licensed outlets” he added.
The board chairman urged residents whose relatives were addicted to alcohol to take them to rehabilitation centres where they will be assisted to quit the habit, noting that it was a serious economic drawback.
Meru county residents spend a staggering Sh4 billion on alcohol annually.
He spoke in after launching a campaign dubbed Kaa Sober intended to sensitive residents on the dangers of alcohol abuse.
Muguna said Meru governor Kawira Mwangaza has allocated funds and availed 12 acres to build rehabilitation centers across the country.
“Our staff have been taught by Nacada on the effects of alcohol and how to spot contraband and fake alcohol,”Muguna said.
