Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning to illicit alcohol sellers, stating they will be arrested and held accountable for endangering public health. Speaking during an event in Limuru Constituency, Kiambu County, on Friday, Kindiki emphasized that no one will be spared in the fight against harmful alcoholic drinks. 'Your days are numbered,' he declared, adding that authorities will ensure no Kenyan is exposed to 'poison in the name of liquor.' The Second in Command, who previously served as Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary, drew parallels between combating illicit alcohol and his past efforts against terrorism and banditry, vowing to 'not be defeated by illicit alcohol traders.'
Kindiki flagged off nine milk coolers for dairy cooperatives during the event, part of 227 coolers distributed nationwide to reduce milk wastage and increase farmer incomes. Kiambu has received 13 coolers, purchased for 98.14 million shillings, benefiting 21,500 dairy farmers. The initiative, he noted, has saved 15.7 million liters of milk annually, generating 769 million shillings in potential revenue. 'The best way to increase earnings for milk farmers is to ensure there are no losses from waste,' he said, citing Kenya's rise as Africa's top processed milk producer. The Deputy President also reiterated his commitment to addressing regional tensions, urging Mount Kenya residents to reject political incitement and maintain unity. 'Incitement and violence is not politics. It is criminal and unacceptable,' he stated, emphasizing his focus on service over political disputes.
In Kiambu, Kindiki highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects valued at 52 billion shillings, including 29 modern markets, housing developments, and road expansions. The Muthaiga Roundabout to Kiambu Town expansion is nearing completion. The event was attended by MPs including Chege Kiragu (Limuru), Alice Ng’ang’a (Thika Town), and Mburu Kahangara (Lari), alongside Livestock Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke. Kindiki also reiterated his pledge to inspect all alcohol manufacturing premises to ensure compliance with public health standards, stating, 'We are going to inspect all the alcoholic manufacturers' premises to ensure they are in compliance with quality and public health standards before they take their products to the market.'
The Deputy President's remarks come amid concerns over the health risks posed by unregulated alcohol, which has led to fatalities in regions like Kiambu and Kirinyaga. His warnings align with broader efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight and protect consumers. Meanwhile, the dairy sector initiatives underscore his administration's focus on economic empowerment and agricultural innovation. Kindiki concluded by reaffirming his dedication to serving Kenyans, stating, 'We will not allow anyone to threaten the lives of Kenyans through the sale of harmful drinks,' as he called for collective action to safeguard public welfare and regional stability.