Christmas and Bonanne celebrations didn’t go well in Burundi as scarcity of beers and other soft beverages were in limited supply.
The country’s only brewer Brarudi produces Primus, Amstel, Heineken, Royal beers but have not been accessible.
Retailers who go to purchase at depots are conditioned to buy the new Vital’O sparkling water. it is a skewer that the owner imposes on his customers to finally have their favorite beer and it is at a high price.
“Drinking your favourite drink is a thing of the past, you have to drink what is available. We have no choice at the moment, we take what we find. I have visited several shops and bars, but it is impossible to find my favourite beer. It is disappointing during this festive period when reunions with family and friends are at the centre of our traditions to mark these end-of-year celebrations ,” says Jean-Claude, a resident of Kamenge.
He adds, “I don’t understand how there is a shortage of drinks during these end-of-year holiday days, it’s sad. Once the guests are received at home, it is difficult to share a drink with them since the bartenders do not allow us to bring the drinks outside and we have to consume them on site . “
