Kirinyaga targets strip clubs, bars in 2-week illicit alcohol crackdown

Kirinyaga County Commissioner Shufaa Mwijuma has warned strip clubs and other illegal entertainment venues ahead of a two-week crackdown on illicit alcohol. Authorities will intensively monitor these establishments as part of a Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) aimed at tackling illicit brews, counterfeit alcohol and drug abuse in Kirinyaga.

During the initiative's launch on September 28, 2026, Mwijuma expressed concerns over bars being licensed too near residential areas and schools, as it creates security challenges and exposes communities to the negative impacts of alcohol abuse. The crackdown also calls for stricter regulations on alcohol outlets and the night-time distribution of alcoholic drinks.

NACADA Deputy Director Amos Warui highlighted second-generation alcohol as a major obstacle, urging authorities to strengthen enforcement from manufacturing to sale points. Kirinyaga has numerous licensed bars, including those operating in villages and near residential areas, prompting a review of bar licensing processes. Warui warned of counterfeit products kept behind the scenes, advising consumers to demand electronic tax register (ETR) receipts and use the Soma Label application to verify products.

Led by Mwijuma and Deputy Head of Presidential Special Projects Dennis Itumbi, the operation will involve intelligence gathering to identify illicit alcohol manufacturers, distributors and brewers. Establishments found operating illegally will face immediate enforcement action without negotiation. The two-week RRI brings together government agencies, police, NACADA, Kenya Revenue Authority and the Kirinyaga County Government to curb illicit and counterfeit alcohol.