Couples only know to fight: Alcohol, drug use & sex risks in informal taverns of Cape Town, the aftermath

Issues: Cramped living conditions in the townships of Cape Town, South Africa push many to spend their leisure time in local unlicensed taverns called ‘shebeens.' To further understand the consequences of alcohol use among couples (e.g., gender-based violence, multiple sexual partnerships, and other drug use) couples who drink in shebeens were targeted for focus groups.

Description: Sixty-seven participants who drink in shebeens and have been in a relationship for at least one year were recruited from both Black African and Coloured township communities for 10 focus groups.

Lessons Learned: Both genders reported similar themes, and apparent differences: Men and women in relationships often go to shebeens to find other sex partners. For women this is often due to the need to “trade for meat.” Women sell their bodies to provide for their families when partners do not come home from the weekend after spending their wages on other sex partners. Many admitted observing sex in the toilets or surrounding areas, some observed the rape of women. Fighting is observed regularly between couples, and it is ‘bloody.” Jealously plays a big part in fighting between couples when drinking at shebeens. Methamphetamine is the other major drug used that is a major cause of violence.

Recommendations: Findings from this formative work will be used to adapt existing interventions for men and couples and improve problem solving and communication skills, and making condom use more appealing. Success between couples will need cooperation, role playing and local implementation in community centers so easily accessible.