Meru County Set to Begin 2026 Liquor Licensing Renewal as Crackdown on Illegal Alcohol Sales Intensifies
By Gerald Mukembu
Meru county alcoholic and Drinks Board CEO Akubu
The Meru County Alcoholic Drinks Control Board has announced the start of the 2026 liquor licensing renewal and new application process, set to run from October 23 to November 21, 2025.
The exercise, led by CEO Gitonga S. Akubu, will include detailed inspections across bars and entertainment establishments in six major towns within the county.
Speaking during a staff meeting to plan the upcoming activities, Mr. Akubu called on all current bar owners to submit their renewal applications early, warning that late submissions will attract a 25% penalty.
He emphasized that adherence to county licensing regulations is vital to maintaining a safe, compliant, and economically vibrant alcohol sector.
“Our goal is to ensure that the alcohol industry in Meru remains responsible, transparent, and supportive of local economic growth. Compliance is not optional it is the foundation of a safe and sustainable community.” Dr Akubu said.
In a firm warning, the CEO condemned the illegal sale of alcohol to minors, linking the vice to rising cases of teenage pregnancies and substance abuse.
He reiterated that the county, under the leadership of Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia, remains steadfast in its efforts to protect young people and uphold moral responsibility within communities.
“Any bar owner or trader found selling alcohol to underage children will face immediate license revocation and legal action,” he cautioned.
Akubu also urged Meru residents to drink responsibly and support the county government’s efforts to build a healthy, productive, and prosperous Meru County.
The upcoming inspections will assess compliance with health, safety, and operational standards as part of the county’s broader mission to ensure order and accountability within the alcoholic drinks trade.
