Alcohol law all set to limit drinking hours

Kenyans should not expect their local pubs to operate round the clock this festive season as the regulations of the alcohol law may be published in a week.

The Alcoholic Drinks and Control Act prohibits the sale of alcohol before 5 p.m. on weekdays and 2 p.m. on weekends and after 11 p.m. all week.

The Act came into effect November 22, but the regulations are yet to be gazetted, which has delayed the law’s commencement date.

Familiarise themselves

“All residents of Nairobi should familiarise themselves with the Act to avoid finding themselves on the wrong side of the law during the festive season,” said Nairobi Provincial Commissioner Njoroge Ndirangu.

Mr Ndirangu also urged revellers to spend more time with their families rather than in bars.

And as the country celebrates the first Jamhuri Day since the promulgation of the new Constitution, Mr Ndirangu urged Kenyans to turn up in large numbers for the fete at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Jamhuri Day is the final of the three national holidays recognised in the new Constitution.

President Mwai Kibaki will lead Kenyans in marking the 47th Jamhuri Day celebrations on Sunday.

As in previous celebrations, those in attendance can expect to see the trooping of the colours by the 1st Battalion, the Kenya Rifles, a fly past by the Kenya Air Force and entertainment from various choirs, traditional dancers and artistes.

Sporting activities are lined up for the afternoon with Bandari FC taking on Gusii FC in a football match at Nyayo Stadium. There will also be street football in Dagoretti.

For those not interested in football, the Nyayo Stadium basketball court will be the scene of karate demonstrations and handball matches.