A Nyamira Chief has shocked residents by reading Bible verses and praying for people who sell illicit alcohol in the region.
Joash Mokaya of Riamanoti location has been preaching the offenders ever since President Uhuru Kenyatta ordered local leaders and administration chiefs to tame individuals who were said to be brewing chang’aa.
The operation is contrary to many crackdowns in the region where residents are said to be brutally beaten by the administrations besides being subjected to harsh punishment.
“He is a cool guy and I think he understand what he is doing. He has done us proud and I think this the way to go. If all leaders follow his example, we will have more brewers surrendering their life to Jesus,” says elder James Mosioma.
According to residents, the government should desist from intimidating local brewers and instead adopt the tactic in a bid to tame the menace.
“This s absolutely amazing and I wish the President had such an adviser to tell him the appropriate way to fight this menace. By intimidating brewers, it doesn’t really help. Offenders are hiding the brew and selling it secretly at night,” added Vane Bosibori.
Chief Mokaya said he adopted the tactic after the careful thought but called upon the government to come up with alternative projects that could help lift the livelihoods of area people.
“I thought by approaching the people and preaching to them the pros and cons of brewing liquor, it will help by extent. They should first know God and the rest follows. They should also be exposed to alternative activities for sustainability" said.