Khat culture and economic wellbeing: Comparison of a chewer and non-chewer families in Harar city

Abstract

Khat is one of the most controversial products of our time which is mostly produced and consumed in the eastern parts of Africa and Saud Arabia. This study contributes to the debate on khat by comparing the family wellbeing of khat chewer (consumer) and non-chewer families in Harar city, by using the International Wealth Index’s (IWI) characterization of wellbeing. The study utilized the survey method. Respondents were identified using a cluster sampling method. The data was gathered using an interview schedule, in-depth interviews, and non-participant observation. Appropriate time was considered in dealing with chewer respondents. The findings of the study indicate that there is a great difference between families who chew khat and who did not, in terms of their material well-being, housing, and quality of life. Most of the khat consumer households have no emergency money nor plan for their families. The data from key informant interviews also show that women experience the greatest burdens of the negative impacts of khat consumption habits. Khat culture affects the base of a community, the family, by affecting its social and economic wellbeing and disrupting its unity. There is no simple solution for addressing the problem of khat due to the intricate nature of the problem. Health officials and health institutions can establish rehabilitation institutions and civil societies can establish a voluntary foundation which creates awareness on the impact of khat on a family.