‘You can close but you cannot deny me’: The adherence to the alcohol ban during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Botswana

Abstract

During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), starting 2019 through 2021 and 2022 Botswana, like other countries, implemented legislation that included a lockdown and a temporary full ban on alcohol sales. However, alcohol users found alternative ways to sustain their drinking behaviour despite the alcohol ban that was put in place. This study explored COVID-19 and alcohol consumption experiences during the temporary lockdown in one village in Botswana. At the time of this study, there was a lack of evidence that could highlight healthier coping mechanisms in epidemics. Therefore, this study brought new knowledge on healthier coping mechanisms during pandemics. A qualitative community mapping study was conducted among fifteen stakeholders and traditional homebrew sellers. In-depth interviews were conducted using an unstructured interview guide. Data were organised using Nvivo 12, while thematic network analysis was used. The findings show that alcohol restrictions were not observed, there was illegal trade of alcohol, and the traditional homebrew sellers’ living conditions were affected as they depended on alcohol sales. However, reduced risky behaviour influenced by reduced alcohol consumption was observed in the community. The study concluded that implementing policies that affect human behaviour is vital to involve the affected population to effectively implement the temporary health relief system. Furthermore, global protocols could be domesticated and used according to the country's context.

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Jeremiah R. P & Tumwesigye N. M. (2025). Title. “You can close but you cannot deny me’: The adherence to the alcohol ban during Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Botswana, African Journal of Social Work, 15(1), 44-53. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v15i1.5