The County Government of Uasin Gishu has issued a directive banning the establishment and operation of children’s play areas within or near premises licensed to sell alcoholic drinks.
In a public notice released by the County Department of Health Services, the county warned that play areas for children must not be located close to bars, pubs, clubs or any drinking establishments.
The move is aimed at protecting children from exposure to alcohol-related environments and promoting their safety, health and overall wellbeing.
According to the notice, business owners and operators are required to remove any children’s play facilities situated near drinking premises and ensure that children are not allowed to access or remain within such establishments.
The county officials noted that the directive applies to all alcohol-licensed premises across the county.
The department of health services emphasized that failure to comply with the directive will attract enforcement measures, including fines, closure of affected businesses, or prosecution in accordance with existing laws.
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County officials say the ban is part of broader public health and child protection initiatives designed to create safe and child-friendly environments.
They added that exposure to alcohol-selling venues poses risks to children, including normalizing alcohol consumption at a young age and exposing them to unsafe social settings.
Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the directive.
While many parents and child rights advocates have welcomed the move as long overdue, some business owners have raised concerns about implementation and adjustment costs.
The county government has urged all affected operators to comply voluntarily, warning that enforcement teams will conduct inspections to ensure adherence to the new regulations.
By Enock Biwott
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