Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli, esteemed patron of the Anzauni clan, has taken a momentous stride towards revitalizing the ancient Kamba brew, Kaluvu. Today, he formally lodged a petition in the Kitui law courts, championing the resurgence of this culturally revered libation.
Addressing the press outside the hallowed halls of the Kitui law courts post-petition submission, Dr. Kyalo underscored that his endeavor isn’t about promoting alcohol consumption but rather safeguarding the rich tapestry of Kamba traditions.
He emphasized the paramount importance of instituting robust measures to ensure that if the petition succeeds, the clan’s council would meticulously oversee the brewing process, upholding stringent health and safety standards. This vigilance would effectively thwart illicit milling and fermentation of Kalivu by unscrupulous traders, notorious for employing hazardous chemicals and substandard materials.
Dr. Kyalo eloquently articulated that this visionary initiative would serve as a unifying force within the Kamba community, offering a formidable platform to advocate for their collective interests on a national scale. The anticipated mention of the case on 28th May 2024 at the Kitui law courts signifies the dawn of a legal odyssey towards safeguarding Kamba heritage.
This groundbreaking development follows in the wake of a precedent-setting ruling on 24th February 2024 at Kiambu Court, where High Court Judge Abigail Mshila affirmed that Muratina, the revered Kikuyu brew, is not a contraband substance but an indispensable facet of Kikuyu culture and tradition.
Should Dr. Kyalo’s noble petition triumph, it would herald a resplendent cultural renaissance for the Kamba people, symbolizing the triumphant resurgence of Kaluvu and a resolute reaffirmation of their venerable heritage.
*RELIEFS SOUGHT*
a) A declaration that ‘Mawa’ and ‘Kaluvu’ is not an illicit brew and the Akamba people are
at liberty to prepare and consume them as part of their culture and tradition without interference from the Respondents.
b) An Order do issue directing the Respondents to take steps to ensure that ‘mawa’ and kaluvu’ are exempted from licensing for being cultural drinks by proposing an amendment to Section 7 (3) of the Alcoholic Drink Control Act within a period of thirty
(30) days from the date of the Order or within such period as this Honourable Court may
Order, and to report the progress thereof to the Chief Justice.
c) A declaration that any question as to the regulation and brewing of ‘mawa’ and ‘kaluvu’
solely falls under the office of the Petitioner as the National Patron of the Anzauni Ndene
Clan of Kenya.
d) Any other relief that this honorable court may deem just and fair to order.
e) That the costs of this Petition be provided for.
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