The County Government of Uasin Gishu has issued a directive banning the establishment and operation of children’s play areas within or near premises licensed to sell alcoholic drinks.

In a public notice released by the County Department of Health Services, the county warned that children’s play facilities must not be located close to bars, pubs, clubs or any other alcohol-selling establishments.

The move, officials said, is aimed at protecting children from exposure to alcohol-related environments while promoting their safety, health and overall wellbeing.

Under the directive, business owners and operators have been ordered to remove any children’s play areas situated within or near drinking premises. The notice further states that children should not be allowed to access or remain in alcohol-licensed establishments.

County officials clarified that the ban applies to all premises licensed to sell alcohol across Uasin Gishu County.

The Department of Health Services cautioned that failure to comply with the directive will attract strict enforcement measures, including fines, closure of affected businesses or prosecution in line with existing laws.

According to the county government, the ban forms part of broader public health and child protection initiatives aimed at creating safe and child-friendly environments.

Officials noted that exposure to alcohol-selling venues poses several risks to children, including normalising alcohol consumption at a young age and exposing them to potentially unsafe social settings.

The directive has elicited mixed reactions from residents. While many parents and child rights advocates have welcomed the move, terming it long overdue, some business owners have raised concerns over implementation and the costs associated with making adjustments.

The county government has urged all affected operators to comply voluntarily, warning that enforcement teams will conduct inspections to ensure full adherence to the new regulations.