Brewing Industry Intensifies Campaign Against Illicit Alcohol as Farmers Benefit from Sorghum Supply
Alexis Ogwe, Eldoret Area Manager for Kenya Breweries Limited, speaks during the Tuzidi Kuinuana Campaign event in Eldoret, highlighting efforts to promote safe and affordable alcohol alternatives while supporting sorghum farmers involved in the production of Senator Keg.
By Kevin Sang
The fight against illicit alcohol has gained momentum following renewed efforts by stakeholders in the brewing industry to promote safer and affordable alternatives while strengthening support for local farmers.
Speaking in Eldoret, Kenya Breweries Limited Eldoret Area Manager Alexis Ogwe said the company is working to curb the spread of illicit brew by expanding access to regulated alcoholic beverages while empowering communities involved in the supply chain.
Ogwe noted that the production of Senator Keg, a low-cost beer made from sorghum, has significantly contributed to reducing the demand for dangerous illicit alcohol while providing a stable market for thousands of farmers.
“Our objective is to ensure consumers have access to safe and affordable alcoholic products while at the same time empowering farmers who supply the raw materials used in production,” said Ogwe.
He revealed that more than 44,000 sorghum farmers—mainly organized into Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) across Central and Western Kenya—are currently benefiting from contractual agreements to supply sorghum to the company.
According to Ogwe, the farmers are not only guaranteed a market for their produce but also receive training in climate-smart agriculture aimed at improving yields and strengthening their long-term economic resilience.
“Through these partnerships, farmers are equipped with modern agricultural practices that help them increase productivity while improving their social and economic well-being,” he added.
Ogwe spoke in Eldoret after presenting a cheque to the overall winner of the Tuzidi Kuinuana Campaign, an initiative designed to reward loyal consumers while raising awareness about the dangers associated with illicit brew.
The campaign also seeks to empower farmer-led community organizations by promoting inclusive economic participation within the brewing value chain.
Industry stakeholders have increasingly partnered with communities and government agencies in recent years to combat the proliferation of illicit alcohol, which has been blamed for numerous health complications and fatalities across the country.
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