Six hundred and thirty bars and restaurants have been shut down in Eldoret and its environs for operating illegally.
Establishments near Moi University and other learning institutions were among those shut, said the Uasin Gishu Alcoholic Drinks Control Board.
Director Armstrong Rono said only 1,070 of 1,700 bars that were operational last year were licensed for trade in 2016.
"Its not business as usual. You must have all qualifications, such as a certificate of good conduct and a KRA licence," Rono said.
"We are still out to close those that do not meet the
qualifications we have put in place."
More than 1,300 wines and spirits shops in the county last year. Rono said then that only 700 shops were allowed to sell the products, mostly in urban areas.
He said not more than three night clubs would be allowed to operate in the Eldoret central business district.
It was reported in March that the consumption of alcohol in North Rift counties after government officials relaxed the campaign to wipe out illicit liquor.
A report by security officials indicated the problem was more serious in slums in Eldoret and Kitale towns.
