Butchers from Nyamira County who do not comply with various Public Health Acts risks closure of their businesses following a planned crackdown by the department of public health.
This comes amidst complaints from members of the public over sanitation standards by butchers, especially in Nyamira town and its environs.
Speaking in her office, public health director Alice Okwoyo said she had received complaints from the public and her officers would crack the whip on errant butchers in the area.
She urged operators of butcheries to meet health standards qualifications or else risk nullification of their licences for the sake of public concerns.
“I have personally received many complaints from the members of public over health standards of butchers. Most of them are said to be drunkards while others are avid smokers contrary to Public Health Acts,” she said.
“There will be a major crackdown and it’s upon them to rectify immediately before things worsen. We will advocate for nullification of their business licences if they are found guilty,” she added.
On Monday, her sentiments received backing from members of the public who said the move will reduce chances of cholera cases that rampant in the neighboring Homabay County.
“This move is long overdue. If you walk around town, you will definitely see how filthy these people are. They need to be disciplined for the sake of curbing a possible cholera outbreak,” said Andrew Momanyi, a town resident.