Nairobi — There are many misconceptions about the ramifications of the presidential assent to the Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill.It is necessary that the authorities explain in detail what the new law means.

First of all, the main objective of the Act is to provide a regulatory regime for the production, packaging, marketing and consumption of alcohol.

Legalisation of chang'aa and other traditional or previously illicit beers and spirits forms only a small component of the new law.

It is therefore important to correct the misconception that removing the prohibition on chang'aa now allows all manner of dangerous drinks, such as those that regularly kill people in our towns and villages, to flood the market.

The law allows the sale of 'traditional' drinks, but only if they meet set health standards.

It is also meant to deal with alcohol abuse in general due to its effects on the health of the drinkers, and on the economy at large.

The government must not relent on the war against those who continue brewing and distilling on river beds and other illegal premises, often adding lethal ingredients. Those intent on profiting from the misery of others must still pay - heavily.