Religious groups turn to soup to help alcohol addicts recover in Nyahururu

Religious groups in Nyahururu, Laikipia County, that use food as a tool to support alcohol addicts are calling for concerted efforts to help individuals struggling with addiction.

A group of volunteers led by Dr John Ngera says many addicts are willing to reform but require consistent care to overcome alcohol dependency. Dr Ngera noted that many alcoholics often grapple with severe hangovers and withdrawal symptoms, making sustained support critical in tackling the vice.

He spoke at Karuga trading centre during their weekly Friday gathering with individuals who have expressed interest in transforming their lives. During the meeting, the group slaughtered a sheep, prepared meals and shared food together as part of the day’s activities.

The session also provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on the steps they have taken and the progress made since the start of the programme dubbed 'Soup with a Message', an initiative aimed at bringing addicts together for mentorship and support.

According to the volunteers, the programme is bearing fruit, with some recovering addicts now playing a key role in influencing their peers to seek help. The group regularly prepares bone soup to attract addicts to lessons held at a local hall every weekend.

Dr Ngera said many addicts do not eat well despite heavy and reckless alcohol consumption. He explained that the soup helps in detoxification, stimulates appetite and supports the recovery process.

A retired veterinarian and a reformed alcoholic, Dr Ngera primarily targets men who have become entangled in alcoholism. He said that despite challenges in sourcing supplies, the team has remained resilient and is now witnessing positive outcomes from the initiative.

"Hangovers remain one of the most common challenges faced by alcohol users. In a bid to counter them, many resort to returning to drinking dens for another bottle, a practice popularly known as kutoa lock, hoping to regain strength to carry on with daily tasks. However, many end up getting drunk again and failing to meet their responsibilities," said Dr Ngera.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), a hangover refers to a group of unpleasant symptoms that appear after excessive alcohol consumption. Common symptoms include nausea, headaches and fatigue.