Effects of excessive consumption of alcohol on households in Ainabkoi Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of excessive consumption of alcohol on households in Ainabkoi Sub-County. Excessive consumption of alcohol remains a critical social issue of public concem that negatively affects households. The purpose of the study was to explore the effects of excessive consumption of alcohol on the households in the study area. The study was guided by Family Systems Theory (Kerr and Bowen) and the role expectancy theory. The study used a descriptive research design. A total of 367 household heads participated in the study. Data were generated from structured interview schedules, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data Were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The findings indicated that excessive consumption of alcohol was sustained by two major drivers: the availability of cheap but potent alcoholic drinks and a combination of community, family, and individual factors. Excessive consumption of alcohol had a socially disorienting effect on the consumers and their households, making them social misfits highly represented in social deviance, negative socialization and misdirected social priorities, whose outcomes were negative parenting and disruption and instability in the household. Excessive consumption of alcohol had negative economic effects on the consumers, their households and the community at large. Consumers became financially irresponsible, less productive in their families and at the workplace, less financially stable, and untrustworthy; lost job opportunities; and experienced deterioration in household economic conditions. The study concluded that excessive consumption of alcohol had negative social and economic effects on the households and the community. The study recommended that policy interventions by both county and national govemments be implemented to address excessive alcohol consumption in peri-urban areas. A community-based approach, utilizing early intervention programs, community health promoters, and public education initiatives, was necessary to reduce the stigma associated with alcoholism. The study advocated for a broad-based communication campaign to raise awareness about alcohol- related harms and ensure accessible, evidence-based treatment and support services. On alcohol policy, the need to address systemic barriers that sustain the illicit alcohol market was recommended. The study calls for a one-stop regulatory system to streamline compliance, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and enhance coordination among regulatory bodies.