Public Health
The Public Health Department in Narok central sub county has banned food hawking in all trading centers since it exposes the residents to communicable diseases.
Speaking at a public baraza held in Narok town, the area Public Health officer John Kiu observed the increasing number of food hawkers in town who cook and sell food beside the road, at bus stops and other open places that are not suitable for handling cooked food.
He said all premises dealing with food should have a valid license from the county government, after a thorough inspection, failure to which they will be shut down. The officer reiterated that over 70 per cent of diseases that are treated in the local hospitals can be avoided if people ate healthy foods and observed cleanliness.
“Prevention is better than cure, everyone who is engaged in food business should ensure that their premises are licensed,” he said. The officer reiterated that meaningful development starts with a healthy life, saying his department was mandated to ensure that all food sold to residents was safe for human consumption.
“We have received information that dog, cat and donkey meat was being sold to unsuspecting customers in town. We are very keen to promote public health,” he said, adding that they will continue collaborating with the department of Interior to arrest all those involved in the illegal act.
On illicit brew consumption, the residents were warned against consuming alcohol that was not regulated as it could easily lead to death. Dr. Yegon Chege of Farming System Kenya said donkey theft has been on increase in the county saying the donkey population has steadily decreased as many farmers have been reporting theft of their donkeys.
“There is a probability that most of these donkeys end up on your plates. Every time you are served a lot of meat at a cheap price you should question the source of the cheap meat,” he said.