The residents of Kinjo location in Abothuguchi West Ward, Central Imenti Constituency, Meru County, have expressed growing concern over the proliferation of bars near local learning institutions. According to the community, the rapid increase in the number of alcohol-selling establishments in the area has reached alarming levels, outnumbering hotels and other businesses. This surge in alcohol consumption has, in turn, led to a significant rise in crime, immorality, and a decline in economic productivity.
During a meeting with National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) representatives, the residents voiced their frustrations, lamenting the devastating effects of the growing alcohol culture in their community. Many young people in Kinjo have reportedly fallen victim to alcoholism, which has not only ruined their lives but also driven them to engage in petty criminal activities to sustain their drinking habits. The locals described the situation as dire, with many youths resorting to theft, including stealing household items and livestock, to afford alcohol.
“The high consumption of alcohol, which has led to increased crime and immorality, is a time bomb ready to explode with dire consequences,” warned Reverend Kaimenyi of Tabernacle Church in Kinjo. He painted a grim picture of the current state of affairs, emphasizing how alcohol has turned many young people into “zombies” who are unable to contribute to the community or engage in any meaningful economic activities.
The concerned residents specifically highlighted the proximity of several bars to educational institutions, including Kinjo Primary School, Kinjo Day Secondary School, and Kinjo Girls School, all of which are located near the market center. They fear that the continued operation of these alcohol joints so close to schools will have a detrimental impact on the education standards in the area. Frank Marete, a local resident, expressed his worries, saying, “We are worried that the dens are operating near those institutions and will negatively affect the standards of education.”
The situation has already led to a significant increase in school drop-out rates, with many students abandoning their studies due to alcohol addiction. The residents believe that unless immediate action is taken, the future of the youth in Kinjo location will be in jeopardy.
In response to the growing crisis, the residents have called on the Meru County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board to intervene and address the situation. They have specifically urged the board’s CEO, Dr. Mbaabu Muguna, to take swift action in shutting down or regulating the number of bars in the market. “We want the Board to revoke licences of bars in the market because if they continue operating, we are talking of a disaster in the waiting among our young people,” said Joyce Makandi, another concerned resident.
Dr. Muguna responded to the residents’ plea by advising them to draft a formal memorandum requesting the board’s intervention. He assured them that the board is committed to addressing the issue and will not hesitate to revoke licences of bars operating within 300 meters of learning institutions, in accordance with the law. “We don’t have the mandate to revoke licences unless through a written and signed memorandum by the residents,” he explained.
The situation in Kinjo location highlights the broader challenges faced by many communities across Kenya, where the unchecked proliferation of alcohol-selling establishments near schools poses a significant threat to the well-being and future of the youth. As the residents of Kinjo rally together to protect their community, their call for stricter enforcement of alcohol regulations serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the future of the next generation. It remains to be seen whether the Meru County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board will take decisive action to address the concerns of the Kinjo residents and restore order in the community.
