Daylight transport policy for alcohol and cigarettes
In yet another move aimed at curbing the rampant abuse of alcohol and tobacco, Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki has announced a sweeping new directive that mandates all alcoholic and tobacco products in Kenya to be transported exclusively during daylight hours.
The directive, issued as part of a broader crackdown on substance abuse, specifies that such goods can only be moved between 6am and 6pm.
This regulation is part of an initiative by the Ministry of Interior, which also includes measures for specific branding and colour coding of all alcoholic and tobacco distribution vehicles.
Manufacturers and distributors have been given a 45-day deadline, effective from March 6, to comply fully with these new policies.
The directive further tightens regulations on the operation of bars and outlets selling alcoholic beverages. These outlets are now strictly prohibited from operating outside the official hours outlined in Section 34 of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act.
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Withdrawal of licenses
Violators will face stiff penalties, including fines, imprisonment, forfeiture of all alcoholic products and accessories on the premises, and withdrawal of operating licenses.
According to the law, bars are permitted to operate from 5pm to 11pm on weekdays and from 2pm to 11pm on weekends.
CS Kindiki justified the stringent new measures by highlighting the severe social issues stemming from the abuse of alcohol and drugs across all age groups in Kenya.
The rampant consumption of illicit brews and drugs has been identified as a significant barrier to the country’s economic growth and development.
It not only undermines public health and safety but also contributes to family disintegration, increases crime rates, and facilitates the spread of diseases such as HIV/AIDS, the CS explained.
These directives, supported by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, aims to eradicate the menace of illicit brews, drugs, and substance abuse, marking a leap toward safeguarding the nation’s health and security.
This policy is seen as a crucial component of Kenya’s broader strategy to foster a healthier, more productive society and to mitigate the profound economic and social costs associated with substance abuse.
