The Kenyan government has given the green light to 13 more manufacturers and distillers of second-generation alcohol to resume operations, bringing the total number of licensed operators to 15.
The decision follows a comprehensive re-vetting exercise conducted by a multi-agency team.
The government had initially suspended all licenses, permits, and authorizations for the manufacture and distillation of second-generation alcohol in March as part of its 25-point enforcement programme to combat the production, sale, and consumption of illicit alcohol and drugs.
Only two companies, Kenya Nut Company Limited and UDV, were initially found to be fully compliant with the required standards. However, following the re-vetting exercise, 13 more companies have been cleared to resume operations after meeting the necessary requirements.
The licensed companies include Patiala Distillers Kenya Limited, Savannah Brands Company Limited, Kenya Wine Agencies Limited, Manchester Distillers Limited, FRM EA Packers Limited, Corobus Africa Products Limited, Zheng Hong(K) Limited, Two Cousins Distillers Limited, Lyniber Supplies Limited, Elle Kenya Limited, Agro Chemical & Food Co. Limited, Crywan Enterprises and London Distiller Kenya Limited.
The re-vetting exercise was carried out by a team of 10 agencies, including the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Kenya Bureau of Standards, Kenya Revenue Authority, Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services, Anti-Counterfeit Agency, Public Health Department, National Environmental Management Authority and the Department of Weights and Measures.
Nine companies were found to have not fully complied with the requirements and have been informed of their shortcomings. The companies have been given time to address the issues before being allowed to resume operations.
The decision is expected to boost the country’s economy as it provides a lifeline to businesses that had been affected by the initial suspension.
