Bar owners in Kajiado North and Kajiado West have been put on notice for operating without valid licenses, as county officials move to enforce stricter compliance under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act and the Kajiado County Drinks and Alcohol Management Act, 2023.
Speaking recently during a stakeholder meeting held in Ngong, Sub-County Administrator and Liquor Department Chair Samuel Muchiri warned that informal arrangements and assumptions of leniency would no longer be tolerated. “Licensing is not optional. Inspections must be conducted by legally mandated officers from the county government, NACADA, the police, KRA, and social services,” he said.
The meeting brought together bar owners, county officials, and elected leaders to address licensing challenges and promote responsible alcohol business practices. Ngong MCA Mbiriri Mwaura acknowledged the stigma surrounding the liquor trade and pledged support for timely licensing to reduce harassment. “We recognize you as legitimate businesspeople. But we also expect full compliance with regulations,” he said.
Mbiriri cautioned against unethical practices such as selling alcohol to minors, operating near hospitals or residential areas, and careless waste disposal. He urged bar owners to uphold public health and safety standards.
ALSO READ:
Rongai’s Ugly Side: How the Rains Unmask a Town Drowning in Neglect
Kennedy Thiong’o, the sub-county liquor licensing officer, officially announced the opening of license applications for the 2025/2026 financial year. He reminded operators to renew their permits and update all documentation to avoid penalties.
Andrew Pailon, the Sub-County Environment Officer warned against pollution and excessive noise from entertainment venues. He called for responsible waste management and sound control to protect nearby residents.
John Njuguna, who is the Ngong Bar Owners Association Chair, appealed for a review of high licensing fees and adjustments to regulatory provisions to support sustainable operations.
Under national law, operating without a license attracts fines of up to Sh500,000 or imprisonment. Selling alcohol to minors carries a penalty of Sh150,000.
The meeting ended with a joint commitment from officials and bar owners to improve compliance, reduce conflict, and uphold responsible standards across Kajiado’s liquor sector.
By Masaki Enock
