The fight against illicit alcohol in Kitengela took center stage during Mashujaa Day celebrations as Kajiado County Commissioner James Taari issued a stern warning to illegal brewers operating in residential estates, some of whom have evaded enforcement through court orders dating back over three years.
Speaking at the event held in Kitengela town, Taari decried the rampant sale of chang’aa, busaa, and counterfeit second-generation liquor, which residents say is openly sold in estates like Noonkopir and Kyang’ombe from as early as 6 a.m. “Let them look for another job. We shall take this war to the full length of the law, even if they take us to court,” Taari said, adding that enforcement will not be derailed by legal delays.
Residents voiced frustration over the unchecked spread of illicit brews near schools and homes, linking the trade to rising addiction, youth deaths, and domestic instability. “Our children are dying. We cannot keep raising this issue every time there’s a public forum,” said one resident.
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Local police officers were accused of complicity, with claims that some collect protection fees from brew sellers. In response, police representatives at the event pledged to intensify operations with the help of Isinya Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Michael Yator in the coming weeks and called on Governor Joseph Ole Lenku to offer logistical and political support to sustain the crackdown.
Community members urged authorities not to politicize the issue, warning that failure to act decisively would further erode public trust and worsen the social toll. The platform also became a rallying point for residents demanding accountability, enforcement, and a safer urban environment in Kajiado County.
By Masaki Enock
