Drink like a Kenyan

ALCOHOLIC --

KENYA STAYCATION

10/21/20241 min read

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp

Yes, Kenyans do drink alcohol, and there are several traditional and modern beverages that are popular:

  1. Tusker Beer: This is one of the most popular local beers in Kenya, brewed by East African Breweries. It’s a lager that is often enjoyed during social gatherings, especially with nyama choma (grilled meat).

  2. Pilsner: Another popular beer in Kenya, Pilsner is a lighter lager that’s widely available and enjoyed at bars and restaurants.

  3. Kenyan Wine: While Kenya doesn’t have a long wine-making tradition, locally produced wines such as Murati Wine and Booth's are available. There is also a growing interest in imported wines from countries like South Africa, Australia, and France.

  4. Chang'aa: A traditional distilled alcoholic drink, chang'aa is made from fermented grains like millet or sorghum. It’s very strong and often consumed in rural areas or among specific communities. It has a reputation for being homemade and unregulated, though it’s popular in certain social circles.

  5. Ajon (or Busaa): A traditional beer made from fermented millet or sorghum, busaa is consumed in rural areas and is often brewed at home. It’s typically served in a communal setting and is a social drink.

  6. Whiskey and Vodka: International spirits like whiskey and vodka are widely consumed in urban areas, particularly in bars, clubs, and restaurants. Popular brands like Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Baileys are readily available in the Kenyan market.

  7. Muratina: A traditional drink made from fermented fruit, usually from the Muratina tree (a type of indigenous fruit tree). It is often brewed at home and can be consumed as a mildly alcoholic drink, sometimes served at ceremonies and celebrations.

Kenyans enjoy a wide variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, depending on the occasion. Alcohol is commonly consumed in social settings, while non-alcoholic beverages like tea, juice, and soda are staples in daily life.