Methods in Combating Alcoholism The Roman Catholic Church’s Response to the “Second Generation” Alcohol in Eldoret Municipality, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract

This research article endeavours to explore the various activities employed by the Roman Catholic Church (RCC) in controlling the “second generation” alcohol abuse in Eldoret Municipality, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. “Second-generation” alcohol abuse is of great concern, as many people have indulgenced into it, with negative effects. The RCC has dominant role to play in controlling the abuse, as it is among the most predominant religious institution and has a large following in the area. In its theoretical framework, it has utilized the Structural Functional Theory by Emile Durkheim and Symbolic Interaction Theory by Marx Weber were used its endeavour to unveil the key question. Methodologically, it targeted the Roman Catholic believers, clergy, rehabilitation counsellors, Alcoholic Drinks Control Board and reformed addicts. Purposive sampling (snowball) technique was used to select 14 informants. Data was collected using Interview Guide and Observation Schedule. Among the key recommendations are that: religious institutions, and especially the RCC should initiate more programmes that can counteract widespread abuse of the “second generation” alcohol; the RCC should work hand-in-hand with the Government institutions to educate people on the dangers of the “second-generation” alcohol abuse; the National and County Governments should cooperate and come up with projects geared towards empowering the youths.