By Staff ReporterÂ
Women in Bulawayo are drinking more alcohol than women in any other province in Zimbabwe, according to the 2023–2024 Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Survey (ZDHS).
The report, released this year, sheds light on gendered patterns of alcohol use across the country, revealing both behavioral trends and potential public health concerns.
The data shows that 9 percent of women in Bulawayo reported consuming alcohol in the month prior to the survey, the highest rate among all provinces. In contrast, Matabeleland North recorded the lowest rate, with just 4 percent of women reporting any alcohol use in the same period.
Urban residency appears to play a notable role in alcohol consumption. According to the ZDHS, 10 percent of urban women consumed alcohol in the last month, compared to just 4 percent of rural women. This trend may reflect greater access to alcohol, lifestyle differences, or social dynamics unique to urban settings.
Among women who reported drinking, 32 percent consumed six or more drinks on days they drank, while 26 percent had just one drink. The remaining portion drank moderate amounts, typically around two to four drinks. Based on these trends, the average consumption among female drinkers is estimated to be approximately 3.4 drinks per drinking day. This suggests that while many women drink in moderation, a significant number are engaging in binge drinking, a known risk factor for long-term health issues.
Though only 6 percent of Zimbabwean women reported any alcohol use in the previous month, compared to 35 percent of men, the intensity of consumption among some women is cause for concern, especially in high-prevalence areas like Bulawayo. As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with broader public health challenges, including non-communicable diseases and mental health issues, the ZDHS findings provide vital insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups working on substance use education and prevention.
This article is based on data from the 2023–24 Zimbabwe Demographic and Health Survey (ZDHS), published by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
Note: While this article references the ZDHS summary stating Bulawayo had the highest female alcohol consumption, detailed data in Table 3.14.1 shows Harare slightly higher at 12.0%. Both cities remain among the top in reported alcohol use among women.
