Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has disclosed the outcome of the evaluation conducted on manufacturers and distillers involved in the production of second-generation alcohol. In a statement issued recently, Kindiki highlighted that out of the 29 manufacturers and distillers subjected to scrutiny, only two were deemed fully compliant.
The compliant entities, namely Kenya Nut Company Limited and UDV, have been granted permission to recommence their operations. Furthermore, the government has granted approval for the resumption of production for three other second-generation alcohol entities, namely Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL), Savanna Brands Company Limited, and Patiala Distillers Kenya Limited.
Kindiki also listed 24 entities that will remain suspended until they address all compliance issues within the next 21 days, starting from the upcoming Monday. These entities include:
- Two Cousins Distillers Limited
- Corobus Africa Products Limited
- Lyniber Supplies Limited
- Elle Kenya Limited
- Zheng Hong (K) Limited
- Rift Valley Brewing Company – Thika
- FRM EA Packers Limited
- Manchester Distillers Limited
- Kedsta Investment Limited
- Julijo Investment Limited
- Platinum Distillers Limited
- London Distillers Kenya Limited
- Agro Chemicals and Food Processing Company
- Crywan Enterprises
- Lumat Company Limited
- Fastlane Wines and Spirits
- Algarve Distillers Limited
- Viva Bedida
- Metro Breweries
- Sabibu Beverages Africa Limited
- Lodiani Water Spring
- Africa Spirit Limited
- Keroche Breweries Limited
- Mamboleo Distillers
This announcement comes on the heels of the government’s proclamation of 25 comprehensive measures aimed at combating illicit brews, narcotics, and substance abuse within the nation. The vetting process involved eight agencies, including the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS), Anti-Counterfeit Agency (ACA), Public Health Department, National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), and the Department of Weights and Measures.
