Sithembinkosi L. Jiyane
Business Reporter
From Bulawayo’s oldest suburb, Makokoba, to the city’s largest suburb, Cowdray Park, illicit gatherings—often held in private homes—have become hubs for the sale and consumption of illegal alcohol.
Makokoba, a high-density suburb in Bulawayo, has long been notorious for its shebeens. The area’s high crime rate, fueled by the proliferation of these unlicensed drinking spots and drug peddling, poses a significant threat to the youth’s future. Residents report daily robberies, even in broad daylight, with some areas turning into no-go zones at night due to rampant crime.
Now, Cowdray Park has emerged as another hotspot. Resident leaders say the illegal sale of alcohol in the area has spiraled out of control.
“Illegal alcohol has become a menace in society, with youths being the primary culprits. The likes of ‘mutoriro’ are the most commonly consumed brews. As a result, crime rates have skyrocketed. Many youths and men have lost employment and their roles in society,” said Gift Dube, a resident representative.
“The proliferation of unlicensed beer outlets, commonly known as ‘shebeens,’ has made it difficult to control societal behavior.”
Health and Social Risks
The rise of shebeens has led to a surge in illicit alcohol consumption, driven by its affordability and availability. However, these illegal brews carry severe health risks. Production methods are often unsafe, ingredients may be contaminated, and the alcohol content is frequently higher than that of legally produced beverages—posing a serious public health threat.
“Societies have lost their sense of Ubuntu, with insults being hurled in public. Respect has lost its place in the community. In family economics, money is lost to drinking members, often through internal theft. The demand for other goods and services usually drops,” Dube added.
The trade has been linked to crime, violence, and deteriorating public health. As the problem spreads, urgent intervention is needed.
Root Causes: Unemployment and Weak Enforcement
“The demand for beer has risen recently. Young people are mostly involved in trading illicit brews. The root causes are idle minds due to youth unemployment, ineffective law enforcement, and the government’s failure to act against production and sales in shebeens,” Dube explained.
In Zimbabwe, shebeens continue to thrive due to high alcohol demand—the top-selling commodity. Many consume excessively, from dawn till dusk, not because they are wealthy, but because beer remains cheap and accessible.
“The root of the problem lies in the lack of enforcement by authorities, allowing unlawful shebeens to operate freely. Despite laws prohibiting unlicensed beer sales, these establishments flourish, even in residential areas like Cowdray Park. Raids by law enforcement are often ineffective, as shebeens reopen shortly after,” said Nicholas Ngwenya, a Community Rights Resource person.
Social and Economic Fallout
The consequences are dire: increased crime, prostitution, child abuse, and eroded social values, particularly among the youth.
“Our community is severely affected. Firstly, the youth lose cultural beliefs and values. Secondly, patrons create excessive noise, blaring radios without regard for neighbors,” Ngwenya said.
The economic impact is equally devastating. Residents live in fear, money is lost, and development stalls, deepening poverty.
“Men and fathers lose their role model status, often drunk and neglectful. Children suffer, losing support and dropping out of school,” Ngwenya added.
A Call for Action
The crisis stems from three key issues: a dire economy with no jobs, unenforced liquor laws, and weak leadership. Without intervention, communities will continue to unravel.
The proliferation of illegal alcohol sales in Zimbabwe—particularly in shebeens—has far-reaching consequences for public health, social values, and economic stability.
Authorities must act decisively to enforce laws, address unemployment, and restore order.
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