Too close? Here is a list of bars to be closed for being in close proximity to schools

The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has ordered the closure of 41 bars claimed to be located in close proximity to schools.

In a letter addressed to all regional and county security committees, the ministry directed the relevant authorities to ensure that bars and other outlets serving alcoholic beverages operating in contravention of the said provision are closed with immediate effect. 

Areas identified as having the highest number of bars near schools include Rongai, Bahati, Njoro, Naivasha, Nakuru Town East and Nakuru Town West.

Some of the bars earmarked for closure include Wesley corner bar, Heritage, Wirere, Fountain bar, Travellers among others.

On March 8, the national government, through the police, shut down bars in various parts of the county following directives from the national government.

The Ministry suspended the business licences of liquor shop owners in a bid to combat the sale of illicit brews throughout the county.

On November 12, Prof Kithure Kindiki who was then the Interior CS announced the closure of alcoholic beverage outlets within 300 metres of primary schools.

This pitted bar owners against the government, who opposed the closure of their establishments, arguing that their businesses were legal and that they were operating within the law and that no criteria had been used in closing the bars. 

According to the Alcoholic Beverages Control Act, alcoholic beverage outlets should be at least 300 metres from any nursery, primary, secondary or other educational institution for persons under the age of 18.

The Constitution also states that every child has the right to free and compulsory education. Proximity to bars and other places where alcohol is sold jeopardises the realisation of this right.

John Maina, a boda boda rider in the city centre, says he supports the government's move to close bars near schools, saying it will help with peer pressure among young people.

"When we have such places very close to schools, it increases the likelihood of school children being exposed to alcohol and also increases the pressure on young people to drink, especially if their peers or older students frequent these places," he says.

Jane Kiama, a vendor at Wakulima Market, says such places should not be located near schools because of the noise pollution from the entertainment venues.

"Most of these places operate late into the night with loud music and you will find that most of the students who are in boarding schools are studying during this time and therefore they are causing noise to the students," she says.

Below is the full list.