The Kikuyu Council of Elders has called for decisive action to curb the growing sale and consumption of illicit brews, warning that the menace is destroying families, undermining economic productivity and putting the lives of young people at risk.
The Council says no section of society is spared, with reports of counterfeit alcoholic brands being sold even in high-end outlets.
The Kikuyu Council of Elders has joined women and children mourning husbands, sons and daughters who have lost their lives or suffered debilitating effects due to alcohol abuse.
Speaking during their General Council Meeting at the Council’s headquarters, the elders called on the government to strictly enforce public participation requirements when determining the number and location of alcohol outlets. The Council also urged members of Councils of Elders and Nyumba Kumi elders to lead by example and work closely with upright and committed police officers in the fight against illicit alcohol.
The National Secretary General, James Nene, said the destruction caused by illicit brews has adversely affected the region’s economic productivity, health and development. He expressed concern that, in many cases, those involved in the manufacture and sale of illicit alcohol are local residents.
University students have also joined the campaign against alcoholism.
Student leader Muriithi Kahinga said students have begun sensitizing their peers in universities on the dangers of alcohol abuse. His sentiments were echoed by Simon Kirima, Youth Patron at the Kikuyu Council of Elders, who accused county governments of issuing licences to illegal alcohol outlets, alleging that some officials have been compromised.
Meanwhile, Salome Kimata, a mother and mentor to people living with disabilities, said illicit brews pose a serious threat to young people, both boys and girls. She cited cases of people losing their eyesight after consuming illicit alcohol, while others have been left with disabilities after being involved in road accidents linked to alcohol abuse.
The Council is now calling on elected leaders and political aspirants to make the fight against reckless sale and consumption of alcohol a key campaign issue ahead of the next General Election. It is also urging voters, including parents and community leaders, to demand firm commitments from candidates on how they intend to tackle the menace.
