Abstract
Through the eyes of those involved in the alcohol policy-making process in Malawi, we explored the role of informal (non-commercial) alcohol in rural communities, its harmful effects, and implications for appropriate national policy. Harms included early drinking initiation, violence, and sexual risk exposure. Informants suggested that policy should address informal alcohol’s content, selling times, and easy access. Because most informal alcohol producers are women who rely upon sales for subsistence, policies must avoid limiting women’s economic opportunities while protecting community health.
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We would like to thank Dag Endal and Oystein Bakke for their participation in this work.
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Easy access to alcohol drinks brewed and sold informally in rural communities poses risks associated with early drinking initiation, violence, and sex. Policy options exist to reduce these.
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Limaye, R., Rutkow, L., Rimal, R. et al. Informal alcohol in Malawi: Stakeholder perceptions and policy recommendations. J Public Health Pol 35, 119–131 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1057/jphp.2013.43
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/jphp.2013.43