Since the presidential directive to crack the whip on second generation alcohol began, bars in Maseno are yet to resume normal operations.
A majority of the owners are still in fear of being raided. Most bars used to open at 2pm but after the crackdown order was given by President Uhuru Kenyatta, a majority began business as late as 7pm.
The situation is still the same so far despite the crackdown cooling. Owners say that they are leaving nothing to chance.
“I just can’t risk my business, because I don’t know if my bar will be raided. Some residents don’t want us to operate,” said Jane Oketch the owner of Jalal bar.
The owners said that they are used to making losses since the crackdown and they are trying to adjust to the new environment of doing business.
“We are just trying to operate in accordance to the harsh environment of living in fear of raids. We have no choice,” said Paul Okulu, another operator.
The bar owners say that losses have affected them considering that a majority of their liquor brands are no longer in supply as they are considered second generation.