The Ministry of Interior has announced the closure of 2257 bars across the country with immediate effect.
In a notice dated November 12, Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has directed that all alcoholic drink outlets operating within 300 meters of basic education institutions across Kenya be closed.
According to the PS, the move is being effected in response to the growing concern over the negative impact of bars on the safety of students.
Further, the notice has indicated that the joints also impact the behaviour and academic performance of students across the country.
“Please note that there has been a proliferation of alcoholic drinks outlets near basic education institutions. This has greatly hampered the government’s efforts in ensuring that learning takes place in a conducive and safe environment,” the statement read in part.
Also Read: Several Nairobi Bars Raided at Night by Sakaja’s Officers
Interior Ministry Explains Why the Bars Should be Closed
Additionally, the statement has explained that the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act mandates a 300-meter buffer zone between learning institutions including any nursery, primary, secondary or other learning institutions and establishments selling alcohol.
Many bars and liquor outlets are reportedly violating this provision, creating an unsafe environment for children and adolescents.
Consequently, learners are lured into drinking alcohol and are also likely to be affected by unruly behaviour, violence and disturbances emanating from those premises.
Also Read: Govt Announces Countrywide Crackdown on Bars & Liquor Joints
“Article 53(1) (b) of the Constitution states that every child has a right to free and compulsory basic education. This right is reiterated in section 4(a) of the Basic Education Act and section 13 of the Children Act.
“The proximity of bars and other alcoholic drinks dispensing outlets to educational institutions compromises the realization of this right. The result is that the government is not likely to realize its policy of 100% retention and transition of learners.”
Therefore, the State Department for Basic Education has mapped out 2257 alcoholic outlets within 300 metres of Basic learning institutions and ordered their immediate closure.
“This is therefore to direct that you liaise with the relevant agencies to ensure that bars and other alcoholic drinks dispensing outlets operating in breach of the said provision are closed with immediate effect.”
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and join our WhatsApp Group for real-time news updates
