Ruth Simiyu

Illicit Brew Consumption in Kenya: Influence on Socio-economic Status of Households and Intervention Challenges Ruth Simiyu

The book gives an evidence based exposition of the effects of illicit alcohol in Kenya, where the brews are rampant especially in slums, rural areas and among the youth. Drinking starts early in the day and cases of mysterious deaths, blindness and arrests from methanol poisoning are common as the brews contain dangerous additives for potency. The brews are cheap, readily available and are prepared, stored and consumed under unhygienic conditions despite the Alcoholic Drinks Act of 2010, which seeks to protect drinkers' health and control drinking hours. Serious consequences on households, where important components of well-being such as schooling of children, income earning, health and family planning are determined are evident. Intervention efforts are hampered by poverty, lack of awareness of dangers and a climate of corruption and laxity among law enforcers. The book recommends legalization of only traditional brews, which are integral to the lives of the people and which cause fewer health problems; stiffer penalties to be imposed on offenders of the current drinking laws than what there is at the moment. Awareness campaigns on dangers of illicit alcohol should be intensified