Kirinyaga County Assembly has expressed concern over illicit brews in the County, citing Kangai Village poisonous brew that left 23 people dead and five with visual impairment.

County Assembly of Kirinyaga led by Speaker, Muteti Murimi, said the unfortunate incident stresses the urgency with which the County needs to address alcohol related issues, within our county.

In a press statement to the media, the Speake,r while extending heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and wishing quick recovery to those still in hospital said, ‘regrettably the incident has occurred when the County Assembly is in the advanced stages of enacting the Kirinyaga County Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023.’

‘Whereas the Legislation focuses on comprehensive measuresM to address the production, distribution, sale and consumption of alcohol, we propose the implementation of programs to support individuals struggling with alcohol dependency, promoting treatment and rehabilitation,’ said the Speaker

He indicated that the Assembly is collaborating with the law enforcement agencies, County Health Department and community leaders from Kangai Ward, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

‘We are committed to understanding the root causes and implementing the necessary measures, to prevent such tragedies in the future,’ he said.

The Speaker added that Kirinyaga County Assembly, will double efforts to promote responsible drinking habits and will work closely with the law enforcement agencies and support them, as they enforce existing laws on alcohol and illicit brew consumption.

He also called on consumers, to be vigilant and be very wary of suspiciously cheap brands.

His sentiments were echoed by Deputy Speaker, Njenaro Jamumo, who said the incident has come as a awakening call to the law enforcement bodies, that deliberate efforts need to be made to eradicate illicit brew and its consumption.

Source: Kenya News Agency