ABAK CALLS FOR STRONGER ENFORCEMENT AND RESPONSIBLE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
The Alcoholic Beverages Association of Kenya (ABAK) has noted recent online discussions and consumer concerns relating to product
authenticity, alcohol quality, and unpleasant consumption experiences.
As the representative body of Kenya's leading alcohol beverage manufacturers, ABAK wishes to reassure consumers that its members adhere to stringent local and international quality standards designed to ensure that products reaching the market are safe, compliant, and of consistent quality.
ABAK is encouraging consumers to remain vigilant and purchase alcoholic beverages only from authorised distributors, licensed retailers and other reputable outlets.
Purchasing products through legitimate channels significantly reduces the risk of obtaining products of unknown origin or products that have been improperly handled within the supply chain.
ABAK Chairperson Kui Kinyanjui stated: “Kenyan consumers deserve the assurance that the products they purchase are genuine, safe and sourced through legitimate channels. Protecting that trust requires a united effort to strengthen enforcement, disrupt illegal and criminal trade networks, enhance product traceability, and hold accountable those who profit from undermining legitimate businesses and exposing consumers to unnecessary risks.”
The Association takes this opportunity to remind our customers that alcohol should always be consumed responsibly and in moderation. Excessive consumption can lead to adverse health effects, including acute aftereffects and other negative outcomes that may be mistakenly attributed to product quality.
ABAK further notes with concern the growing volume of alcoholic beverages entering the market through parallel importation channels. While legitimate trade plays an important role in the economy, products imported outside established distribution networks can present challenges in relation to traceability, storage conditions, and verification of origin. In some cases, it can be difficult for consumers and enforcement
agencies to independently confirm the source, handling, and authenticity of such products.
The Association is therefore calling for urgent action by relevant Government stakeholders. The need for more enhanced collaboration among regulators, enforcement agencies, industry stakeholders and retail trade has never been more important to strengthen market surveillance, improve traceability mechanisms, and protect consumers from illegal and non-compliant products.
"We urge consumers to buy alcoholic beverages only from authorised and reputable outlets and to always drink responsibly. At the same time, we call for continued investment in intelligence-led enforcement, stronger border controls, and coordinated action among all stakeholders to safeguard product integrity and consumer trust across the market,” said Ms. Kinyanjui.
ABAK reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with government agencies, trade partners, retailers, and consumers to promote a responsible, transparent, and well- regulated alcohol industry that prioritises consumer safety and supports legitimate economic activity.