Karatina Booms as Kirinyaga Bars Go Dry

A wave of beer lovers has descended upon Karatina town and its environs in Nyeri County, Kenya, following the closure of bars in neighbouring Kirinyaga County.

This turn of events began last Sunday when Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru ordered the shuttering of all alcohol outlets in the wake of a tragedy that claimed 17 lives. Karatina, conveniently within walking distance of the Nyeri-Kirinyaga border, has become a haven for thirsty Kirinyaga residents. Local bars and entertainment joints report a significant surge in customers, with those hailing from Kirinyaga forming a substantial portion of the new clientele.

This development comes amidst Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's ongoing campaign to combat alcoholism in Central Kenya. Notably, Karatina lies within the Mathira constituency, considered Gachagua's political backyard. The county government itself recently revoked all liquor licenses for a fresh vetting process, further tightening the noose on alcohol sales. Governor Waiguru's announcement at a mass burial ceremony on Saturday clarified that no bar in Kirinyaga would reopen until meeting strict licensing regulations.

This has left many Kirinyaga residents quenching their thirst elsewhere, and Karatina has become the prime beneficiary. Bar owners in Karatina are witnessing an unexpected financial windfall. "Business is booming," declares Mr Francis Maina, manager of Quality Bar and Restaurant. "Since Governor Waiguru's crackdown, our daily sales have skyrocketed." Similar sentiments are echoed by operators across Karatina, with many reporting a notable influx of customers from Kirinyaga, easily identifiable by their distinct accents.

However, not everyone welcomes this development. Bar owners and residents in Kirinyaga County have voiced their opposition to the closures, arguing that it unfairly punishes responsible drinkers. "Shutting down bars won't magically solve the problem. We have the right to enjoy our drinks responsibly," protests Kerugoya resident Joseph Murimi. While some Kirinyaga establishments reportedly explore relocation to neighbouring counties, their patrons seem content to make the trek to Karatina. However, even Karatina's newfound prosperity faces challenges.

On Tuesday, a surprise raid by national and local authorities at a liquor warehouse netted illicit beer valued at Sh4 million, highlighting the ongoing efforts to regulate alcohol sales.