NACADA Board Chairman Dr Stephen Mairori has raised alarm over the mushrooming of bars and wine and spirits outlets across the country which are operating outside business hours.
In a statement on Thursday, Dr Mairori noted that most bars are in service well before the State-set time of 5 pm and continue operations deep into the night despite closing hours having been set at 11 pm.
“NACADA would like to remind proprietors of bars, wines and spirits, clubs and all other alcohol dispensing outlets of the provisions of the fourth schedule of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010 which clearly stipulates the operating hours which are between 5:00 PM and 11:00 PM on weekdays and 2:00 PM and 11:00 PM on weekends and public holidays,” said Dr Mairori.
He similarly raised concern over the ballooning of bars in residential areas and around schools and learning institutions.
“This has been compounded by the proliferation of wines and spirits outlets which blatantly allow drinking of alcohol on site and dispensing of the same to children below eighteen years,” he said.
According to Mairori, bars should be established at least 300 meters away from any learning institution used by minors, any place of worship, health facility or public playground.
He likewise noted with concern that a significant number of alcohol dispensing outlets are not compliant with the obligatory public health standards and thus pose a health risk to their intended clients and staff.
“The country is witnessing an increase in contraband and second-rate alcoholic drinks as has been highlighted in various media outlets. This presents a severe health challenge to consumers,” said Dr Mairori.
“Accordingly, and in support of the Presidential directive, NACADA is immediately embarking on coordination of all responsible multi-agency bodies to ensure that the requirements of the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2010 are strictly adhered to and that only those premises that meet the requirements of the aforementioned law shall be allowed to operate. “
The NACADA Board Chair proceeded to urge county governments to exercise caution when considering bar licensing applications from prospective sellers.
