Narok: The Government has revoked the licenses of nine bar operators in the Nchurra Eobori area of Narok Central Sub-County following protests by hundreds of women against the rising consumption of illicit brews.
According to Kenya News Agency, the women marched to the County Commissioner's office, raising concerns over sexual harassment and assaults by intoxicated men. They reported incidents where women and girls were sexually abused while traveling to or from fetching water or collecting firewood. The protestors claimed that the bars were violating regulations by operating during working hours and selling unauthorized cheap alcohol.
Pastor Judy Kishoyian, a protestor, revealed she had been counseling several victims of sexual harassment. She highlighted the issue of women being attacked in maize plantations or nearby forests, with perpetrators often evading capture. Many victims were reluctant to report these incidents, leading to underreporting of the trauma experienced.
Mary Kosen, another protestor, expressed concern over the rising drug abuse among high school and college students, which was affecting their education. She lamented that children were neglecting academic and domestic responsibilities in favor of frequenting drinking dens.
Deputy County Commissioner Kennedy Mwangome assured the women of the government's dedication to citizen protection. He warned that those involved in the illegal sale of alcohol faced arrest and prosecution, and emphasized efforts to enhance security to combat the proliferation of illicit brews.
Sub-County Police Commander John Momanyi confirmed that police were vigilant to prevent unlicensed alcohol sales, underscoring the government's crackdown on illegal alcohol distribution.