Abstract:
Kaanga brew is a common illicit liquor from Meru county in Kenya. Popularity of this brew has been growing and
is religiously passed down from one generation to the next. The substrates, preparation process and additives
used in making it are unhygienic and toxic. As a result, numerous social and health effects have stemmed from
its consumption. This study aimed at analyzing the health impacts arising from consumption of Kaanga brew in
Meru county, Kenya. A cross-sectional design of study was employed. The research tools used included
questionnaires, interviews and observations. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze and present the findings.
The results indicated that popularity of this brew was mainly because it was cheaper than other alcoholic
beverages. Its consumption was projected to continue for a long period, if strict intervention measures are not
taken. The additives used, such as battery acid, methanol and dry cells were indeed toxic for human consumption.
Several social effects which had public health effects (such as irresponsible sex activities), by extension were
experienced from the consumers. Kaanga brew had significantly more chances (P > 0.05) of causing health effects
compared to the other brews. Some of the direct health conditions arising from its consumption include loss of
vision, memory and appetite, inflammation and regular stomach upsets. 80% of the respondents had witnessed
or heard of a death case caused by the brew.
