With complaints about the rising rate of alcohol consumption in Central Kenya, one town stands to go against the tide.
Deep in the vast Kiambu County lies Kijabe Town, a town highly associated with missionaries from the African Inland Church and known for not allowing the use of alcohol and cigarettes for residents in the area.
From time immemorial, the town has had a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, leaving the area in utmost uniqueness as compared to other regions in Central Kenya.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, a local Nyumba Kumi leader from the area explained how the town managed to stay drug-free, despite increased consumption of alcohol in the county.
“For the longest time, we have managed to bring up a sober society that is not reliant on alcohol or cigarettes.
“Children from this area grow with an understanding that it is possible to survive without drugs,” remarked the local leader.
He further indicated that despite attempts by some people to introduce drugs in the town, their efforts have never seen the light of the day.
“There used to be a bar a few metres from the AIC Kijabe Hospital and a section of the youth would go drink there.
"Some of them would, however, get too drunk and one day they even went as far as attacking a police post that used to be in the area. With time, the bar was closed down and that was the last of any pub here,” he recollected.
As one of the towns where Christian missionaries settled first, locals continue to hold unending respect for the church and its values.
Further, the African Inland Church in the area remains an authority to reckon with, even issuing business permits to everyone wishing to start a business.
“Before starting a business in the area shopping centre, the church issues licenses that necessitate the business opening.
“This allows the system to sieve any business with the potential of selling alcohol or cigarettes to locals,” the Nyumba Kumi elder informed.
Another resident who works at AIC Kijabe Hospital indicated that residents and visitor have a difficult time when the urge to consume alcohol strikes.
“Whenever someone needs a drink, they are forced to get out of Kijabe Town and go to the closest centre, Gachiengo, which is on the highway.
“Others go to as far as Kimende or Mai Mahiu. After drinking, they slowly stagger their way back to Kijabe,” he added.
AIC Kijabe Hospital which serves residents and visitors is greatly revered for its historical surgeries.
The hospital is operated by missionaries associated with the AIC Church who came from as far as Europe.
