By Mathew Longok Abekson
KOTIDO: The consumers of Kotido local brew, popularly known as Ebutia made from fermented sorghum have raised concerns over soaring prices of the drink commonly used as food in the region.
The jug of Ebutia now costs between 1,500 and 3,000 from 1,000 shillings.
Paul Lokudongor, one of the consumers of Ebutia in Narikapet, says the prices have affected low-income earners who have been relying on Ebutia for food and social gathering.
He says that the quality of the brew has also degenerated, forcing many of them to start drinking early morning before brewers dilute the brew in the afternoon and evening hours.
Vivian Kodet, a brewer at Kisenyi bar in Kotido rural says the increase in the liquor prices was prompted by the high cost of sorghum in the market.
According to her, the price of sorghum, the main ingredient used for making Ebutia, has more than doubled.
She explains that a bag of sorted sorghum costs between 180,000 to 200,000 from 90,000 shillings in January.
Another vendor in Entebbe area, Janet Moding who operates at Nachakan bar, blames the soaring cereal prices to the high demand of sorghum in South Sudan.
To cater for her customers, Moding has introduced sales of Ebutia in cups.
However, when asked about the demand for Ebutia, the brewers say they have a flock of customers in their bars since the majority of small-scale brewers have been forced out of business due to the high costs of sorghum.
In Kotido Ebutia is more than just a drink, it’s a cultural marker for the Jie, used in ceremonies, social events, and even funeral rites. It’s a symbol of unity and celebration, bringing people together.
