NAIROBI, Kenya- As the festive season kicks into gear, Kisumu County is ramping up security efforts and tightening alcohol industry regulations.
County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo unveiled a strategy to ensure safety and compliance, involving increased patrols and stricter enforcement of laws governing bar operations near schools.
Kisumu’s chiefs and their assistants have been tasked with joining police officers on foot patrols as part of a heightened security initiative.
This directive, issued by Commissioner Leparmorijo, is designed to safeguard residents during Christmas and New Year celebrations.
“We’ve recalled all officers on leave and mapped out hotspots across the county,” Leparmorijo stated during a press briefing. “The city has been divided into four security zones to ensure round-the-clock surveillance.”
The Commissioner also called on residents to assist by reporting suspicious activities. According to Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, more than 10,000 officers have been deployed nationwide to bolster public safety during this high-traffic period.
Beyond security, Kisumu authorities are cracking down on bars operating near schools.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) recently directed the closure of establishments within 300 meters of educational institutions—a move Commissioner Leparmorijo fully supports.
“Our goal is compliance,” he emphasized after a meeting with the Kisumu Bar Owners Association. “Businesses must adhere to laws ensuring responsible practices.”
While the directive has raised concerns among bar owners, Association Chair Daniel Ouma expressed a willingness to collaborate with authorities. “We’re working to resolve issues affecting 11 bars flagged under this new rule,” he said.
However, Deputy Chair Milton Obote highlighted enforcement challenges, citing conflicts between national and county authorities. “It’s embarrassing when one arm of government enforces rules the other isn’t aware of,” he noted, advocating for unified regulatory efforts.
While bar owners voiced frustrations over alleged police harassment, both sides committed to fostering cooperation. Ouma assured that the Association is engaging with authorities to ensure seamless operations and compliance.
With these measures in place, Kisumu is poised for a safer, more orderly festive season, balancing public safety with business interests.
