NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 27 – Kenyans have been urged to buy alcoholic beverages only from authorised distributors and licensed retailers amid concerns over the sale of illicit and counterfeit liquor.
The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) said purchasing alcohol through legitimate outlets would reduce the risk of consumers buying products of unknown origin or those that have been improperly handled.
The association’s warning comes amid growing consumer concerns over the authenticity and quality of some alcoholic beverages in the market.
ABAK Chairperson Kui Kinyanjui said stronger enforcement and better tracking of alcohol products were needed to protect consumers and legitimate businesses.
“Kenyan consumers deserve the assurance that the products they purchase are genuine, safe and sourced through legitimate channels,” Kinyanjui said.
She called for increased efforts to disrupt illegal alcohol trade networks and hold those involved accountable.
ABAK also raised concern over the growing volume of alcoholic beverages entering the country through parallel importation channels, saying such products can be difficult to trace and verify.
The association said products outside established distribution networks may pose challenges in determining their origin, storage conditions and authenticity.
It called for greater collaboration between regulators, enforcement agencies, manufacturers and retailers to improve market surveillance and product traceability.
The association also urged consumers to drink responsibly, noting that excessive alcohol consumption can cause adverse effects that may sometimes be mistaken for problems with product quality.
“We urge consumers to buy alcoholic beverages only from authorised and reputable outlets and to always drink responsibly,” Kinyanjui said.
ABAK said it would continue working with government agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen consumer protection and promote a well-regulated alcohol market.
