Written By Lisa Murimi
Kenyan brewers may soon sell traditional alcoholic drinks like Chang’aa, Busaa, and Muratina without licenses if a new bill introduced in Parliament is passed.
The Alcoholic Drinks Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, presented by Nominated Senator Raphael Chimera, seeks to exempt traditional brews from licensing requirements under the Alcoholic Drinks Control Act.
Senator Chimera argues that traditional brews play a vital cultural role in Kenyan communities, used in ceremonies like dowries, initiations, and blessings.
He views the current licensing system as discriminatory, hindering those who depend on these drinks for their livelihood.
Chimera said he was inspired by complaints from traditional brewers facing harassment from police, leading him to advocate for the removal of the licensing requirement.
“This bill aims to allow them to trade freely,” he said.
Traditional brews were legalized in 2010, but stringent licensing processes have made it difficult for small-scale brewers to operate legally.
Current law imposes a five-year prison term or a Ksh2 million fine for unlicensed sale.
Chimera’s bill does not alter the regulations for consumption, meaning licensed operators can still refuse service to intoxicated patrons.
