Kisumu County has been ranked third in the country for illicit alcohol consumption, according to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.
The revelation comes amid a nationwide crackdown targeting the production, distribution, and sale of illegal brews, which the government has blamed for rising health risks and social instability.
Speaking during the ongoing Jukwaa la usalama public security forum held in Kisumu, Murkomen said the county also ranks fifth in per capita marijuana consumption.
He described the situation as deeply concerning, especially given Kisumu’s central role in the country’s economy.
“Kisumu ranks third in illicit alcohol consumption and number five in per capita consumption of marijuana,” the CS said.
“Any officer who is found to be abetting this crime will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”
Murkomen noted that while Kisumu is a key economic powerhouse thanks to its thriving fish, sugar, and rice industries the widespread abuse of illicit substances threatens to derail the county’s development.
“To unlock Kisumu’s full potential, we must confront the hard truths. Illicit alcohol, drug abuse, and organised gangs are choking progress. Our response must be decisive and comprehensive,” he added.
The government is rolling out a multi-agency strategy to combat the menace, including asset seizures and freezing of bank accounts belonging to gang leaders suspected of being involved in the illicit trade.
In addition, the regulation of the boda boda sector is being fast-tracked to prevent its misuse in criminal activities.
Murkomen said the plan involves county governments and will require operators to join Saccos and operate within designated areas and hours.
He also announced enhanced border patrols and capacity-building within the Coast Guard Service to combat unregulated fishing and smuggling through Lake Victoria.
The Interior Ministry is also working on a joint framework with Uganda to manage cross-border exploitation of fish resources, aiming to put an end to the harassment of fisherfolk and the inflow of contraband goods, including adulterated alcohol and drugs.
Addressing the social factors contributing to insecurity, Murkomen pointed to high rates of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in the region.
He said the government is adopting an all-of-society approach to confront harmful cultural practices such as disco matanga and wife inheritance, which are often linked to increased substance abuse and violence.
Murkomen stressed the need for stronger collaboration between local leaders, law enforcement, and the public.
Students, boda boda riders, and beach management units are being incorporated into local security committees to ensure that the community plays a direct role in addressing these challenges.
The crackdown on illicit alcohol is part of a broader national security strategy, but Kisumu’s ranking highlights the urgency of focused interventions in the region.
