Safeguarding Your Liquor And Savoring Authenticity: The Need for ‘The Bar’ App This Festive Season

In a world where we all raise our glasses to toast, whether with beer, whisky, water, or coffee, we often assume that what we consume is genuine and safe. But is this always the case? Are we, as consumers, unwittingly sipping on poison while maintaining our blissful ignorance?

The Counterfeit Conundrum:

The bitter truth is that counterfeit alcohol has silently crept into our glasses. The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) is responsible for ensuring the safety of what we drink, but they need to step up their efforts in collaboration with the Anti-Counterfeit Agency, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). It’s also essential for them to form a seamless partnership with genuine manufacturers like East African Breweries Limited (EABL). Failure to do so will see counterfeit alcohol running rampant.

The Role of the ‘SOMA Label’ App:

KRA has introduced the ‘SOMA Label’ app, empowering consumers to verify the authenticity of the beverages they consume. This information must be disseminated widely to the public.

Alarming Statistics:

A startling revelation from Euromonitor indicates that 59% of Kenya is awash with counterfeit spirits. This illicit trade knows no borders, with unscrupulous dealers producing counterfeit spirits and distributing them far and wide.

Placing Blame and Responsibility:

It’s unfair to point fingers at EABL, as they are genuine manufacturers. Those in charge of the Anti-Counterfeit Agency must step up or step aside, giving other capable Kenyans the opportunity to protect consumers.

Read Also: Excise Duty on Beer, Water to Increase By 6.3% From October 2022

The Need for an Online Mobile Platform:

KEBS and the Anti-Counterfeit Agency need to develop and deploy an online mobile platform for consumers to identify genuine products. The ‘SOMA Label’ app is a good start, but it needs support from these regulatory bodies. EABL cannot be held responsible if consumers unknowingly consume counterfeit alcohol.

Targeting the Frontlines:

To ensure authenticity, the focus should shift to bar staff and waiters. KEBS should collaborate with the Anti-Counterfeit Agency, DCI, and KRA to monitor the quality of beverages sold in bars and joints.

Government Intervention:

The government holds the key to combat counterfeit alcohol. By reducing taxes and disrupting the ethanol supply chain, they can make genuine alcohol more affordable. It requires decisive action, not mere words.

Read More:

• Kenyans To Pay KRA Ksh142 For Two Beer Bottles From October
• Farmers Most Affected by the FY 2022/2023 Excise Duty on Beer

Tech to the Rescue:

EABL’s ‘The Bar’ app is a valuable ally in the battle against counterfeits. It guides consumers to trusted establishments, ensuring their drinks are genuine. This demonstrates the essence of duty of care. KEBS and the Anti-Counterfeit Agency should focus on similar solutions with support from the DCI and KRA.

Cheers to Authenticity:

While EABL may not dictate your choices, they vouch for quality. Your beer and ‘mzingas’ are safe. Still, always keep a watchful eye on local joints.

Policing the Anti-Counterfeit Trade:

The fight against counterfeit alcohol involves multiple government bodies and law enforcement agencies, including KEBS, the Anti-Counterfeit Agency, DCI, and others. A quiet but relentless crackdown on these operators can be more effective than flashy roadside declarations.

Dawn of a New Day:

To defeat counterfeit alcohol, Kenya needs a fresh strategy. Affordable pricing and disrupting the sources of ethanol from neighboring countries can be the game-changers. It’s time for real change.

A Toast to Authenticity:

In a world where imitations abound, choose the real deal. Trust in ‘The Bar’ app or your favorite local spot, but always remain vigilant. Safeguard your spirits and savor every drop. You can find it here: Ke.thebar.com

As the festive season approaches, make use of the EABL app to locate places where you can enjoy genuine alcohol. Protect yourself and your loved ones by ensuring that your celebrations are filled with authenticity and not poisoned by counterfeits.

Read Also: Wine And Beer Company Launches Flagship Store in Nairobi