Makueni governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr has called for stricter enforcement of law and order, especially to protect school-going children from the dangers of illegal alcohol trade.
Speaking during the official opening of the Mutulani health facility’s maternity wing, which was constructed and equipped by the M-Pesa Foundation at a cost of Sh17 million in collaboration with the county government, the governor raised concerns over reports that some clubs are operating without licenses and selling alcohol to schoolchildren.
“I have heard the area chief of Watema location raise a very serious concern about clubs operating without a license and selling to even school children. Where are you heading to? We cannot allow our future to be destroyed by people who care less as long as they get money. Whoever takes the alcohol doesn’t matter to them. No—make use of your crown by enforcing law on the latter,” governor said.
The governor emphasised that protecting young people is essential to the community’s future, urging local administrators to ensure that laws are followed.
Mutula warned illegal operators that they would face tough consequences and encouraged citizens to obey the law at all times.
“For operators, everything is automated now. Just one click, and you get your license at your convenience. What excuse do you have to operate illegally?” he wondered.
Area chief Peter Munyao highlighted the extent of the problem, noting that in a small shopping centre, there are five clubs and one bar-and-restaurant operating like a club. He stressed that such environments negatively impact students.
“There are too many clubs in this centre—in fact, about to outdo the shops. Despite trying our best, the owners care less and even sell to school children, which is equally ruining their future,” said the chief, calling for stricter action from licensing authorities.
M-Pesa Foundation champion Paul Kasimu also urged residents to move away from alcohol-related businesses and instead invest in more productive ventures that support community growth and youth development.
“Let us upgrade ourselves from that level. If alcohol consumption tops an area, then the outcome is pathetic, and we don’t want to reach there,” he said.
Kasimu further linked development to education outcomes, criticising Mutulani Secondary School for poor academic performance despite significant investment by the foundation.
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“M-Pesa Foundation spent Sh7.5 million for a state-of-the-art ICT centre fully equipped with computers, but the performance is not appealing at all. I am actually disappointed—kindly pull up your socks,” he said.
On healthcare, Kasimu noted that Makueni County remains a strong partner, urging deployment of nurses to ensure the new maternity wing fully serves its purpose.
Governor Mutula thanked the foundation for its continued support in improving access to quality maternal healthcare services. He announced the upgrade of the dispensary to a level 3 facility, ensuring it is fully equipped to meet community needs.
He added that ongoing partnerships—including a Sh60 million project at Sultan Hamud Sub-County Hospital and a Sh27 million maternal and child health unit at Tawa Sub-County Hospital—have significantly strengthened healthcare services. Previous initiatives, such as medical outreach programs and the Ndoto Zetu initiative, have also had a positive impact.
By Lydia Ngoolo
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