The Paradox of Alcohol Control Policies in Kenya: Culture versus Policy: A Case of Illicit Brew Control in Kakamega and Uasin Gishu Counties, Kenya

Abstract

Alcoholic beverages are closely linked to the history of man. They are either recorded (formal) or unrecorded (illicit). In Africa, a third of all alcohol consumed is illicit and are closely tied to cultural traditions that challenge alcohol control policies. This study was carried out in Kakamega and Uasin Gishu counties in Kenya targeting illicit brew traders and National Government Administrative officers (Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs). It was a descriptive study that sought to determine how cultural norms determined implementation of alcohol control policy on illicit brews. The study was guided by discursive approach to policy, the result indicated that, illicit brews were socially acceptable, were a key requirement in traditional rituals practiced in both counties, were valued by some members in the community, used a medicine, is an intergenerational art and played key roles during different social integration events. All these factors, affected the effort to curb illicit brew trade because the implementers belonged to the same communities, some still holding the believes about traditional alcohol. It was further found that the presence of cultural values on unrecorded alcohol, multiple stakeholders in controlling the brews and national constitution protecting people’s cultural heritage further derailed control efforts by of the National Government Administrative officers.