Perceptions of the effects of shebeens on the community of Greenwell Matongo, Windhoek
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Date
2019
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Publisher
University of Namibia
Abstract
This study focused on the effects of shebeens in the society, particularly within the Greenwell Matongo residential area. Its overall aim was to explore the community members’ perceptions towards the effects of shebeens, thus it investigated their views and experiences around the signing of shebeen consent letters, and the shebeen monitoring system. A qualitative research approach was employed, and, a phenomenological design was used. Data were collected through a semi-structured interview that involved open-ended questions. Interviews were conducted with eighteen (18) community members, of which 3 are employed (including self-employed), 3 are unemployed, 2 are shebeen owners, 3 are general community members (community councillor, a school teacher, and a police officer), 4 are working at shebeens, and 3 residents who have signed the shebeen consent letter.. The data collected through interviews were transcribed and analysed. The collected data were themed into three major themes: 1) effects of shebeens on the community, 2) the signing of the shebeen consent letters, and 3) the shebeen monitoring system; which after analysis led to the following themes as being the effects of shebeens on the community: environmental effects, economic effects, high alcohol consumption, poor parenting, increased crime, lack of shebeen control, lack of knowledge on shebeene consent, bribery and intimidation, poor shebeen control as well as corruption. These themes will be useful to all shebeen stakeholders and the Liquor Board to implement the recommendations made by community members regarding the issuing of shebeens’ and liquor licenses. The Liquor Act No. 6 of 1998 is an amicable alcohol and shebeens regulator in the country, however, the study found that it is being ignored, not practical and is therefore not being implemented. Consequently, the study recommended an amendment of the Liquor Act, especially the requirements of the shebeen structures to fit the environment where the shebeens are located. The study is significant to the community at large, as it is adding to the existing literature lie on the phenomena. In conclusion, shebeens have both positive and negative effects in the community, with negative effects out weighing the positive ones. The negative effects include: noise, excessive alcohol consumption, poor parenting, low performance at school, poor hygiene, increasing crime, and poverty. The positive effects of shebeens are mainly income generation and job creation. The study also concluded that community members know very little about the signing of the consent forms that are signed as a requirement to obtain a liquor license. Many members have also not realised the effectiveness of the shebeen monitoring system. These results are essential because they can be used to contribute to plans of strengthening the existing alcohol monitoring system in Namibia.
Description
A research thesis submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of arts in social work
Keywords
Greenwell Matongo, Shebeens, Windhoek