Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-07 21:00:00
In recent days, a tragic incident of illicit alcohol consumption in central Kenya has led to the deaths of nearly 15 people. The situation has garnered national attention as six individuals succumbed on Tuesday, with several others losing their eyesight as a result of consuming the toxic alcohol. This deadly scourge has had devastating effects in Kirinyaga County, prompting outrage and action from local residents.
The consumption of illicit brews is a serious problem that has affected communities across the country. In response to the rising death toll, villagers in Kirinyaga expressed their anger by setting fire to a local bar believed to have been the source of the lethal alcohol. It is suspected that the drink was laced with ethanol, highlighting the dangers posed by unregulated and illegal alcohol production and distribution.
The pursuit of profit at the expense of public health and safety has led to merchants of death lacing beverages with deadly substances to serve unsuspecting customers. The unlicensed nature of the bar that sold the lethal alcohol is a clear indication of the failure of enforcement officers tasked with upholding law and order. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stricter regulation and oversight of alcohol production and distribution.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol Abuse (Nacada) has issued a warning against consuming alcohol of unknown quality and origin. The authority has also raised concerns about the proliferation of bars, wines, and spirits outlets that do not adhere to required standards. With approximately 3.2 million Kenyans enjoying alcoholic beverages, the rising cost of alcohol has led many to seek out cheaper alternatives, heightening the risk of being exposed to illicit and dangerous concoctions.
Beyond the immediate loss of life, alcoholism carries a significant social cost, contributing to the breakdown of families and the destruction of livelihoods. Chronic alcohol abuse can prevent individuals from maintaining employment and providing for themselves and their families. Although the government has introduced policies and measures aimed at raising public awareness and curbing alcohol abuse, the problem persists, highlighting the need to strengthen enforcement of existing laws and regulations related to the manufacturing, sale, and consumption of alcohol.
The issue of illicit alcohol consumption is not confined to a specific location, but rather is a nationwide problem. Drawing inspiration from neighboring countries such as Uganda and Tanzania, which have successfully regulated traditional liquors like Waragi and Konyagi, Kenya could explore similar measures for traditional beverages such as busaa, mnazi, chang’aa, and muratina. However, in order to protect public health and safety, it is imperative that rogue brewers and sellers of illicit alcohol face severe consequences for their actions.
In conclusion, the recent incident of deaths and blindness resulting from the consumption of illicit alcohol in central Kenya serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stricter regulation and oversight of alcohol production and distribution. In addition to the immediate loss of life, alcoholism has significant social and economic costs, necessitating concerted efforts by authorities to address the root causes of this devastating problem. Stronger enforcement of existing laws and regulations, coupled with measures to regulate traditional alcoholic beverages, are essential steps towards mitigating the risks posed by illicit alcohol consumption in Kenya.
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