In response to the recent tragedy in Kangai village, Kirinyaga County, where 13 individuals lost their lives after consuming illicit alcohol, stakeholders within the alcohol industry are urging the National and County governments to collaborate with all players in the sector to formulate effective policies and laws.

The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) and the Bar, Hotel and Liquor Traders Association (BAHLITA) emphasized the critical importance of involving all stakeholders in the regulatory process to address the existing loopholes contributing to such tragedies.

Expressing their condolences to the families affected by the Kangai incident, ABAK and BAHLITA underscored the urgent need for comprehensive measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Victims of the illicit alcohol suffered from symptoms including blurred vision, blindness, and confusion, highlighting the severity of the issue at hand.

The incident has reignited discussions on the efficacy of current efforts by governmental bodies to combat alcohol abuse, particularly in the Mt. Kenya region.

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Key to these efforts has been the enactment of laws at the County Assembly level, with several bills currently under consideration.

ABAK Chairman, Eric Githua, cautioned against potential unintended consequences of the proposed laws, suggesting that they might inadvertently facilitate the underground trade of illicit alcohol.

He stressed the importance of revisiting the legislation to ensure alignment with the interests of all stakeholders.

"While the intentions behind these bills are commendable, we must recognize the risk of diverting enforcement resources away from tackling illicit alcohol," stated Mr. Githua.

He emphasized the need to balance regulatory measures with the preservation of legitimate alcohol trade, which plays a crucial role in combating illicit alcohol.

Similarly, BAHLITA Chairman Simon Njoroge expressed concerns about the potential impact of stringent regulations on retailers, warning that such measures could drive them underground.

In response to the recent tragedy in Kangai village, Kirinyaga County, where 13 individuals lost their lives after consuming illicit alcohol, stakeholders within the alcohol industry are urging the National and County governments to collaborate with all players in the sector to formulate effective policies and laws.

"Our members have voiced their concerns during public participation sessions, urging county assemblies to reconsider certain provisions of the proposed laws," noted Mr. Njoroge.

He emphasized the importance of a nuanced approach that takes into account the realities of the business operating environment.

As counties prepare to resume deliberations on the proposed legislation, stakeholders are hopeful that their input will be taken into consideration to ensure that any regulatory measures implemented are effective, equitable, and conducive to the well-being of all stakeholders involved.