Meru Intensifies Crackdown on Fake Alcohol Amid Rising Student Consumption

Meru County has launched a robust campaign against the proliferation of counterfeit and expired alcoholic beverages, driven by increasing consumption of dangerous second-generation liquor among college and university students.

Gitonga Akubu, CEO of the Meru County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board, revealed that authorities have confiscated illicit alcohol worth millions of shillings during ongoing operations targeting producers, distributors, and vendors.

Speaking on August 18, 2026, Akubu emphasized enhanced surveillance of bars and liquor outlets suspected of selling fake alcohol to safeguard youth from health risks associated with adulterated drinks. The crackdown aims to significantly reduce the availability and consumption of these hazardous products.

Key Challenges and Regional Hotspots

• Meru has long been a dumping ground for cheap and counterfeit liquor imported from various regions.
• Corruption has been identified as a major enabler in the production and distribution chain.
• Consumption spikes notably during school holidays when student demand rises.
• The Igembe region is highlighted as a hotspot for both consumption and distribution of illicit alcohol.

To date, the county government has shuttered 21 bars and arrested several individuals facing prosecution for selling expired and fake alcoholic drinks. Some offending businesses have had their licenses revoked due to non-compliance with licensing and safety regulations.

Supply Sources and Calls for National Action

Akubu noted that approximately 98% of alcohol consumed in Meru is sourced from outside the county, particularly Nairobi, Nyeri, Isiolo, and Laikipia counties. He urged national agencies such as KEBS, NACADA, and KRA to intensify inspections and enforcement at manufacturing sites.

He appealed to President William Ruto to declare a nationwide campaign against counterfeit and second-generation alcohol, stressing the issue’s scale exceeds the capacity of individual counties.

Community Engagement and Future Measures

• Meru is preparing a joint initiative with neighboring counties to combat cross-border smuggling of illicit liquor.
• Residents are encouraged to purchase alcohol only from licensed vendors and avoid suspiciously sold quantities.
• Stricter judicial penalties are being sought to deter counterfeit alcohol production and trade.

Akubu warned that alcohol-related illnesses and deaths continue to threaten the youth’s future, underscoring the urgency of sustained and coordinated interventions.