By Stanly Ebele.
A report by the Karamoja Peace and Environmental Protection Service (Kapeps Ministry) has indicated that 498 people died due to alcohol related causes and starvation.
The report which spans through a period of 15 years from 2008 -2023, indicates that consumption of crude waragi and other gins was responsible for the deaths reported in the 15 years.
The report compiled through interviewing, community verification visits and questionnaires to the local authorities indicates that in Kacheri Sub County alone, a glaring 221 people (including 46 women and 175 men) are said to have died after sipping alcohol on empty stomachs.
In Kotido Municipality, 162 people reportedly died from alcohol related illnesses, with 42 reportedly being women while in the greater Panyangara which includes the present day Kamor, Loletio, Rikitae and Napumpum, 132 deaths were recorded.
The report also states that 77 Karachunas lost lives in raids against Teso, Acholi and other districts of Karamoja triggered under the influence of alcohol.
The author of the data, John Bosco Akore, who is the founding member of Kapes Ministry, said the glaring numbers show how deadly crude alcohol is to Karamoja.
He said he plans to take the debate to another level to interest key stakeholders like District Councils to take proactive action by forming by- laws and ordinances.
In Karamoja, alcohol consumption, particularly of locally brewed and potent spirits, is associated with increased domestic and interpersonal violence, economic hardship, and health problems, including alcohol-related diseases and mental health issues.
Alcohol abuse contributes to a range of health issues, including liver disease, heart disease, and mental health problems.
