Gongo drink can be legalised if ...

 

THE Minister for Trade, Industries and Investment, Mr Charles Mwijage, has said that the government cannot legalise illegal illicit brew.

He has advised entrepreneurs to use the raw materials to put up registered industries to manufacture a standard spirit. He advised the private sector to contact the Small Industries Development Organisation (SIDO) offices which are available in all regions in the country to get guidelines if any on how to establish such industries. 

 

“I take this opportunity to advise the drinkers and manufacturer of the spirit, which is currently illegal, to go for guidelines on how such drink can be manufactured taking into account the public health safety,” said Mr Mwijage.

He also urged the major brew companies in the country, to look into the opportunity to manufacture brands which carry the taste of the illicit brew commonly known as “gongo” as it has proved to have many drinkers.

Mr Mwijage gave the advice in the National Assembly here yesterday when answering Ms Gimbi Masaba (Special Seats-Chadema) who asked why the government is not formalizing “gongo” manufacturing as it has been a common drink especially for people in villages and rural areas.

She also urged the government to empower the manufacturer of the illicit brew to educate them on the best practice so that its production can be done according to standards.