Kenya authorizes 13 more second-generation alcohol manufacturers to resume operations 

KENYA – Kenya has authorized 13 additional manufacturers and distillers of second-generation alcohol to resume operations, bringing the total number allowed to operate in the country to 15.  

This decision follows a thorough vetting process by the Ministry of Interior. 

On March 6, 2024, the government introduced a 25-point enforcement program aimed at curbing the manufacture, sale, distribution, and consumption of illicit alcohol, narcotic drugs, and psychotropic substances.  

Among the measures was the immediate suspension of all licenses, permits, and authorizations for second-generation alcohol producers. The directive required a fresh vetting process within 21 days to ensure compliance with security, safety, health, labor, environmental, and other national standards. 

Initially, all 29 active manufacturers and distillers of second-generation alcohol were vetted by a multi-agency team, but only two—Kenya Nut Company Limited and UDV—were found fully compliant and allowed to continue their operations after a countrywide vetting exercise conducted between March 18 and March 21, 2024. 

Following a comprehensive re-vetting exercise involving 22 of the 27 previously non-compliant dealers, 13 more manufacturers and distillers have now been approved.  

The re-vetted and approved companies include Patiala Distillers Kenya Limited, Savannah Brands Company Limited, Kenya Wine Agencies Limited, Manchester Distillers Limited, Agro Chemical & Food Co. Limited, London Distiller Kenya Limited, and Corobus Africa Products Limited. 

However, nine manufacturers and distillers were found to have not fully met the requirements. They have been informed of their shortcomings and instructed to address them to gain compliance. 

This rigorous vetting and re-vetting process is part of Kenya’s ongoing efforts to combat alcohol and drug abuse. In June 2024, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) unveiled its strategic plan for 2023-2027.  

This plan sets a comprehensive framework for resource allocation and efforts to build a culture aimed at eradicating alcohol and drug abuse. 

NACADA’s 2023-2027 strategy primarily focuses on addressing the supply side of drug and alcohol issues.  

As part of this effort, NACADA has also announced a nationwide crackdown on bars and liquor outlets situated near educational institutions to curb the influence of alcohol and drugs on young people. 

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