Zimbabwe grapples with surge of dangerous fake and illicit alcohol

Zimbabwe is facing a major public health crisis as dangerous and illicit alcohol floods cities like Bulawayo. Among the most notorious is "njengu," a highly potent brew produced in makeshift backyard distilleries, often located in abandoned industrial zones like Kelvin Industrial.

Sold for as little as US$1 for two bottles, njengu has devastated communities, leaving drinkers with life-threatening ailments and addiction, particularly among the youth. Authorities have declared a crackdown on its production, but the problem has evolved into a more insidious threat: counterfeit premium alcohol disguised as high-end brands such as Jameson, Jack Daniels, and Johnnie Walker.
Counterfeit Alcohol Market on the Rise

These fake products, produced in unlicensed factories or homes, are sold in trusted establishments, nightclubs, and roadside markets across Bulawayo. Bottled and labeled to resemble authentic brands, they are deceiving unsuspecting consumers while posing severe health risks.

"This is killing legitimate businesses," said Joseph Dzova, a well-known Luveve tshisanyama proprietor. "The fake alcohol sellers don't have overheads like rent, salaries, or utilities. They sell from the boot of their cars and have no reputation to protect."

Dzova emphasized his commitment to sourcing genuine alcohol for his clients. "We have a reputation to protect. Our customers trust us to provide authentic drinks."
Origins and Risks of Fake Alcohol

The fake alcohol is reportedly smuggled into Zimbabwe from neighboring countries like South Africa, Zambia, and Mozambique, where it is produced in backyards. Dealers repackage the brews into bottles of reputable brands, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish between fake and genuine products.

"There is a misconception that a bottle stopper guarantees authenticity, but that's not true," a local street alcohol dealer explained.

Health professionals have raised alarms about the dangers of consuming such counterfeit alcohol. Dr. Evelyn Sungano, a Bulawayo-based practitioner, warned that fake alcohol often contains toxic substances like antifreeze, screen wash, and nail polish remover.

"Symptoms include nausea, confusion, loss of coordination, and even unconsciousness. In severe cases, it can lead to hypothermia or death. We urge anyone who suspects they've consumed fake alcohol to seek immediate medical attention," said Dr. Sungano.
Social Media Uproar and Consumer Awareness

Two years ago, a prominent Bulawayo nightclub owner was embroiled in a social media scandal for allegedly selling fake expensive whiskey. A customer claimed to have suffered severe stomach pains after consuming a counterfeit bottle of Jameson and was hospitalized.

"Most nightclub owners buy alcohol from omalayitsha (cross-border traders), who sell it at cheap prices," the dealer noted. "But no one knows the true origin of these drinks."

At some nightclubs, pricing strategies even attempt to distinguish genuine alcohol by advertising based on the percentage of alcohol content, further exposing the blurred lines between authenticity and deception.
Government Response

Authorities have intensified raids on illegal brewers and distributors. Bulawayo police have pledged regular inspections to dismantle operations producing and selling illicit alcohol.

However, combating this crisis requires more than law enforcement. Public education and vigilance are crucial in protecting consumers. Experts advise citizens to purchase alcohol only from trusted and licensed suppliers.

The ongoing crisis has underscored the urgent need for stricter regulation and oversight of alcohol production and distribution in Zimbabwe, where the stakes include not just economic stability but the health and lives of its people.