KISORO – Batwa communities in Rukeri Village, Gitenderi Parish, Nyarusiza Sub County, Kisoro district, express deep concern over the escalating rates of alcoholism among the Batwa, leading them into undesirable activities.
Serutoki Stephen, the chairperson of Rukeri Batwa community, voices apprehension about his community members being alcohol addicts, especially during the festive season, which heightens the risk of engaging in negative behaviors.
He fears that uncontrolled alcohol consumption, particularly in abundance, may expose them to threats like HIV/AIDS due to unrestrained sexual activities.
Serutoki urges the Police to enhance their operations during the festival season to mitigate potential dangers associated with celebrations.
CUE IN STEPHEN…….ON BAR OWNERS……RR//
In response, IP Boaz Arinaitwe, the community liaison officer at Kisoro Central Police Station, issues a stern warning to bar owners across the district. He declares that the police will conduct patrols throughout the district, and anyone found involved in unlawful activities will be apprehended and taken to court.
CUE IN IP BOAZ….ON BAR OWNERS…..RR//
According to the May 2023 WHO report, the rate of consumption in Uganda stands at 12.21 litres of alcohol per capita per year, which is much higher than the average consumption in Africa, that is, an average of 6.3 litres per person per year.
The report also reveals that Ugandan men consume more alcohol than women since on average, men consume an estimated 19.93 litres of pure alcohol annually, while women consume 4.88 litres.
