Kebs orders brewers to set up laboratories

Brewers and distillers must now set up laboratories for testing their products before they are released into the market, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) has directed.

And those who fail to comply will have their licences withdrawn.

The move is aimed at curbing deaths due to consumption of lethal alcoholic drinks, Kebs official in charge of North Rift region, Mr Benjamin Seroi, said Tuesday.

“The laboratories will ensure quality and safety of consumers,” Mr Seroi told a meeting attended by officials from the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) in Nandi town.

Over 120 people have died across the country this year due to consumption of lethal alcoholic drinks.

Mr Seroi said all the 13 brands of spirits they have tested contain poisonous substances.

“That is why Kebs decided to make laboratories a requirement for brewers and distillers so we can protect consumers,” the official said.

Head of Nacada in North Rift, Mrs Eunice Arubie, asked county governments to establish rehabilitation centres to help those recovering from drugs and substance abuse.

“Nacada will provide technical support for the counties that set up such centres,” Mrs Arubie said.

TOXIC SPIRITS

Last month, 20 people died and 50 others were hospitalised in the North Rift after consuming toxic spirits said to be from Uganda.

Nandi County health executive Mathews Rotich, called on leaders, churches, Nacada, Kebs and Kenya Revenue Authority to join hands in the fight against illicit liquor.

Mr Rotich pointed out that since the crackdown on illegal alcohol started in Nandi County two months ago, over 600 people had been arrested and charged in court.

“Victims should be assisted to get back to their lives,” Mr Rotich said.