For years, Kiambu County has wrestled with the devastating impact of illicit and poisonous alcohol, a crisis that has claimed numerous lives—particularly among young men—and disrupted countles families across the region.
Despite ongoing government crackdowns and public outcry, the trade has persisted, largely driven by lenient court bail terms, weak enforcement, and allegations of protection by powerful individuals.
The recent deaths of three men in Kimende last week have reignited public outrage, prompting community leaders, security teams, and local churches to take a direct role in eradication, rehabilitation, and advocacy.
The war against illicit alcohol in Kiambu County has taken a new turn following the recent deaths of three victims in Kimende last week. In response to the escalating crisis, local churches have taken center stage, launching sensitization campaigns and direct interventions targeting recovering addicts.
Following the tragedy, a section of the clergy called on the judicial system to impose stricter penalties—including capital punishment—on individuals arrested for selling deadly brews. The leaders expressed frustration that suspects often receive lenient bond terms, enabling them to quickly return to the market and resume operations without fear of legal consequences.
Speaking at the Mephibosheth Church (also known as the Ark of Recovery Centre), Pastor Godfrey Kagondu—a leading cleric at the forefront of voluntary addict rehabilitation—urged stakeholders to stop treating the issue lightly. He warned that the situation is worsening daily and that urgent action is needed to protect the younger generation from being wiped out by toxic alcohol.
Pastor Kagondu, who offers counseling and empowerment sessions to recovering addicts, noted that his initiative has yielded positive results, with many participants gradually quitting the habit and resuming daily responsibilities. However, he stressed that additional support and coordinated strategies from all stakeholders are essential to prevent further loss of life.
“It is deeply shameful that authorities are doing virtually nothing while young men and women continue to die. Licensed bar operators conduct business callously as if nothing is happening. This must stop,” Kagondu stated. He appealed to Christians and like-minded individuals to join the fight, questioning why the region continues to be heavily impacted by the menace.
Beneficiaries of the recovery program praised the initiative, stating that despite limited resources, the counseling has enabled them to regain control of their lives.
Peter Kimani, a recovering addict who consumed illicit brews for 17 years, shared that six months of attending the church’s sessions helped him sober up and reconcile with his family. He accused unscrupulous dealers of operating under the protection of influential government officials, allowing the illegal trade to thrive.
“If the government genuinely wants to eradicate this deadly brew, they must go after the ‘big fish’ behind the trade rather than focusing solely on low-level operators,” Kimani said.
Meanwhile, multi-agency enforcement efforts are underway. Last Saturday, the Kiambu County Security Team, led by the County Commander, conducted a crackdown across several outlets in the Muguga area of Kikuyu, arresting several suspects and shutting down non-compliant establishments.
