A recent investigation by The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance in Botswana (SAAPA Botswana) sheds new light on the troubling role alcohol plays in fueling gender-based violence (GBV) across southern Africa.
Titled “Examining Alcohol Availability & Gender-Based Violence in Four Countries in Southern Africa: A Community-Centered Approach,” the study reveals how the accessibility and trading practices of alcohol intensify risks, escalate the severity of violence, and foster environments where such violence becomes more likely.
Focusing on two Botswana communities, Lobatse in the South-East district and Molepolole in the Kweneng district, the research explores the density of alcohol outlets and their direct links to GBV. Molepolole emerged with the highest number of verified alcohol outlets at 180, yet its vast geographic spread meant it had the lowest outlet density, averaging 2.11 per square kilometer. By contrast, Lobatse, with 139 outlets, had a much denser concentration of 8.68 per square kilometer.
Among the four countries studied, Botswana stood out for its high proportion of both homebrew and commercial breweries, 43.3% and 19.1%, respectively. Traditional sorghum beer, known locally as Chibuku, was sold in a third of outlets (33.2%). A striking finding was the widespread presence of unlicensed outlets: 67% in Lobatse and an even higher 78% in Molepolole.
The study also highlights Botswana’s 24-hour alcohol trade, with nearly two-thirds (64.6%) of outlets operating around the clock. Molepolole’s figure was especially high at 69%. Nearly 89% of these outlets permitted both on-site and off-site consumption, the highest rate recorded in the research.
SAAPA noted a complex relationship between alcohol and the community in Botswana and South Africa. Participants recognized alcohol not only as a source of concern but also as a critical means of survival for many. “Interestingly, in both Botswana and Namibia, participants expressed empathy for people trading in alcohol, recognising that many do so out of necessity in the face of unemployment and food insecurity, even when operating illegally. Furthermore, the participant in Botswana further notes the tensions between this empathy for survival and the need to also consider the broader well-being of the community.”
The study underscores a significant gap in recreational spaces for both children and older adults in Botswana, a void that seems to push many into environments dominated by alcohol consumption. Without alternatives, young people are particularly at risk. The research draws a clear connection between high outlet density, lack of security, and elevated rates of GBV.
“The observations about GBV raised by participants were often related to intimate partners, either with one partner (especially males) having consumed alcohol outside of the home, or when couples drink together (Lesotho), and jealousy over perceived interest from other patrons at the alcohol outlet, which can lead to harmful consequences (Botswana).”
Further concerns emerged around the sale of alcohol from homes, which poses serious threats to children’s safety and well-being in Botswana. Public drinking also appears to encourage experimentation among youth, exposing them to dangers such as drinking and driving.
Across the communities studied, residents frequently noted the impact of alcohol availability on noise levels and overall quality of life, disruptions to peaceful living and restful sleep were common complaints.
The report makes clear that while alcohol is a significant contributor to crime, it is not the sole factor. Underlying mental health issues and broader social stresses intersect with alcohol use to shape patterns of violence and criminal behavior.
“In Botswana, a participant suggested that community mapping can support the identification of smaller outlets that might otherwise go unnoticed and provide evidence of high alcohol outlet density, empowering local leadership to demand enforcement measures.”
This sense of empowerment extended to involvement in the research itself, which participants saw as a chance to monitor trade, expose hidden outlets, raise awareness, and send a clear message to traders that their activities are under scrutiny.
“Another participant emphasized this role of leadership in working with other stakeholders in the community. The Chiefs’ role is fundamental to the functioning of the ‘kgotla’ in Botswana. A community leadership representative in Botswana suggested reinforcing the education of outlet owners about liquor laws, and a multi-stakeholder forum, including tribal representation, was also suggested for collective decisions around alcohol trade in communities.”
This study presents a compelling case for stronger policies and community action to address the intertwined challenges of alcohol availability and gender-based violence, highlighting the urgent need for solutions that balance economic survival with public health and safety.