Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has announced a campaign to shut down liquor stores operating within 300 meters of learning institutions for violating the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Kenyatta International Conference Center (KICC), Mwaura stated that the government has taken steps to address the proliferation of alcohol outlets near basic educational institutions.
He emphasized that the presence of liquor stores near schools poses a significant threat to the well-being of learners, undermining efforts to create a safe and conducive learning environment.
"These outlets not only jeopardize the safety of learners but also expose children to the risk of alcohol consumption, which could derail their academic progress," Mwaura stated.
He defended the crackdown as legally grounded in the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act and the Constitution.
Mwaura cited Section 12 of the Act, which mandates that alcohol-selling outlets maintain a minimum distance of 300 meters from nursery, primary, and secondary schools, as well as other institutions serving minors under the age of 18.
Additionally, he referred to Article 53 of the Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to free and compulsory basic education.
Mwaura explained that the proximity of bars and similar establishments compromises this right by exposing learners to alcohol, thereby affecting their education and the government's efforts to ensure a safe learning environment.
The government, in collaboration with other agencies, has identified 2,257 alcohol-selling outlets operating within 300 meters of learning institutions, he noted.
"In partnership with other government agencies, the State Department for Basic Education has launched a campaign to safeguard the health and well-being of children and youth," Mwaura noted.
"As part of this initiative, 2,257 alcohol-selling outlets located near learning institutions have been identified and will be closed immediately," he affirmed.
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