The Kisumu County Commissioner has directed that all bars operating near learning institutions must shut down and relocate in adherence to the latest government direction over the same.
Benson Leparmorijo said the National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) had already instructed that all liquor outlets must not be around a 300-metre radius of schools.
“Laws must be respected and our goal is to ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations within the alcohol industry and ensure responsible businesses practice,” he said.
Speaking to the press in Kisumu after a meeting with Kisumu Bar Owners Association (KBOA) during their AGM, the Commissioner said they have already mapped out hotspots within the county and deployed adequate officers to enforce the direction.
The Commissioner also assured the public of their safety during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
“These officers will be joined by our administration unit officers, chiefs and their assistants, so that they can do foot patrols within their jurisdictions,” he said. “We have enough officers for day and night patrols. For the city, we have zoned it into four units and we are prepared to deal with any eventuality.”
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According to Interior Principal Secretary (PS) Raymond Omollo, a total of 10,317 officers have already been deployed and will be patrolling the streets to enhance public safety.
KBOA Chairperson Daniel Ouma, said they are working hand in hand with security agencies to ensure smooth implementation of the directives.
“In Kisumu, we have 11 bars and liquor stores that are affected by the directive and we are working on how best to resolve the issue,” he said.
By Fredrick Odiero
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