South Africa, four other African countries with highest alcohol consumption

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Alcohol consumption varies across Africa due to differences in culture, social habits, and economic conditions. Some countries consume very little alcohol because of religious or cultural restrictions, while others have some of the highest consumption rates in the world.
In 2019, the World Health Organisation (WHO) published a report on alcohol consumption worldwide. The report aimed to help countries reduce harmful drinking and its negative effects. It showed that the highest alcohol consumption is found in Central Europe, the South Pacific, and parts of the Caribbean. In Europe, beer and wine are the most popular drinks, with countries like France and Germany leading because of their long history of producing and drinking alcohol.
On the other hand, countries like Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have the lowest alcohol consumption rates. This is largely due to religious rules that forbid drinking alcohol.

Below are the top five African countries with the highest per capita alcohol consumption (in litres of pure alcohol per year):

5. South Africa – 7.21 Litres

South Africa, a country known for its rich beverage industry, takes the fifth position with 7.21 litres per capita consumption annually.

South Africa has a strong wine culture due to its world-class vineyards and a thriving beer industry. Alcohol is a common feature at parties, gatherings, and social events. Wine and beer are the top choices, followed by spirits like brandy and whisky.

4. Burkina Faso – 7.28 Litres

Burkina Faso ranks fourth, with the average person consuming 7.28 litres of alcohol per year.

The cultural significance of traditional brews like dolo (a beer made from millet) influences consumption. Alcohol is often a key part of community celebrations and special events. Traditional drinks like dolo dominate, but some people in urban areas also drink commercial beer and spirits.
3. Eswatini – 7.68 Litres

Eswatini, a small country in Southern Africa, comes in third, with an annual per capita alcohol consumption of 7.68 litres.

Alcohol plays an important role in Eswatini’s social and cultural traditions, especially during ceremonies and gatherings. Affordable homemade brews also contribute to high consumption rates. Umqombothi (traditional beer) is widely enjoyed, along with commercially produced beers and spirits.

2. Tanzania – 7.81 Litres

Tanzania takes the second spot, with an average consumption of 7.81 litres per person each year. Alcohol is a big part of life in many Tanzanian communities.

Traditional homemade brews, like pombe (fermented beer) and banana beer, are deeply tied to Tanzanian culture. Urban areas also see an increasing preference for commercial beers and imported spirits. Alongside traditional brews, Tanzanians enjoy Konyagi (a local spirit), beer, and other alcoholic beverages.

1. Seychelles – 9.48 Litres

Seychelles, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, ranks as the highest alcohol consumer in Africa. Each person consumes an average of 9.48 liters of pure alcohol annually.

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