Mombasa Deputy Governor Francis Thoya has stated that palm brew (mnazi) should not be considered an illicit drink.
Speaking after a meeting with mnazi traders in his office, Thoya noted that many mnazi vendors face challenges in their businesses due to a lack of clear policies. As a result, some perceive mnazi as illegal.
Thoya urged the traders to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the county government to create guidelines for their operations.
“Once the MOU is in place, we will register the vendors and notify security agencies in Mombasa that mnazi vendors are now recognized,” he said.
He further explained that the proposed MOU includes regulations prohibiting the selling of mnazi near schools, churches, and mosques.
“The agreement will also outline business operating hours, licensing fees, and regulations for vehicles transporting the brew,” Thoya added.
He emphasized that once both the county government and vendors finalize and agree upon the MOU, anyone violating the established rules will face penalties.
Meanwhile, Beatrice Mbodze Gambo, one of the founders of Palm International, pointed out that many vendors face harassment due to the lack of proper licenses.
“Police are doing their job by arresting unlicensed vendors, but at the same time, vendors are simply trying to earn a living,” she said.
Mbodze urged traders to ensure they operate within the MOU guidelines once they receive licenses.
Japhet Ruwa, chairman of the Mnazi Vendors Association in Mombasa, echoed these sentiments, stating that the agreements between the county government and vendors will help streamline their operations.
Speaking on behalf of other vendors, Ruwa noted that many traders have suffered harassment from police officers because they lack the necessary permits.
“We often have to bribe police officers to continue operating. When business is slow, they don’t consider our struggles—we are forced to pay out of fear of being arrested,” he said.
