Kiambu County has stepped up efforts to strengthen regulation of the alcoholic drinks sector following a meeting of the County Alcoholic Drinks Regulation and Management Committee aimed at enhancing oversight and compliance within the industry.
The meeting brought together committee members and senior county officials, including Chief Officer for Administration Martin Kangiri, who attended his first engagement with the committee since assuming office in the department.
Discussions focused on the implementation of the Kiambu County Alcoholic Drinks Control Act, 2024, which serves as the legal framework guiding the management, licensing and regulation of alcoholic drinks within the county.
County officials reviewed progress made in enforcing the Act and explored measures aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and accountability in the administration of the sector. The meeting also examined the committee’s mandate and its role in ensuring that businesses operating within the industry comply with established laws and regulations.
Under the Act, the County Alcoholic Drinks Regulation and Management Committee is tasked with considering and determining licence applications forwarded by Ward Alcoholic Drinks Regulation Committees. The committee is also responsible for hearing appeals arising from decisions made at the ward level and carrying out additional functions assigned by the County Executive Committee Member.
Members used the session to deliberate on strategies that could strengthen regulatory processes and improve adherence to the law among operators in the sector. The discussions emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between supporting legitimate businesses and safeguarding the interests of residents.
Speaking during the meeting, Chief Officer Martin Kangiri reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to promoting a fair, transparent and effective regulatory environment. He noted that proper enforcement of the law is critical in ensuring responsible trade while addressing challenges associated with unregulated alcohol sales.
Kangiri further emphasized the need for continued collaboration among stakeholders involved in the regulation of alcoholic drinks to enhance service delivery and build public confidence in licensing processes.
The county government has maintained that effective regulation of the sector plays a key role in protecting consumers, supporting legitimate investors and ensuring compliance with county laws.
The meeting comes as Kiambu continues to implement measures aimed at improving governance and accountability across various sectors. Officials expressed confidence that strengthened oversight mechanisms will contribute to better management of the alcoholic drinks industry while promoting lawful business operations throughout the county.
The committee is expected to continue reviewing applications and overseeing implementation of the Act as part of ongoing efforts to streamline regulation of the sector.
