Shebeen

Shebeen in Omuthiya in the far north of Namibia (2011)

Shebeen (the Shebeen; originally: Irish Sibín , probably from Séibín , "mug") is a name for a - mostly - illegally or informally operated pub . The term comes from Great Britain , where alcoholic beverages were sold without the necessary license , especially in Ireland and Scotland . Shebeens were introduced to America by Irishmen who worked in anthracite mines in Pennsylvania ; these were led by a leader of the Molly Maguires organization who was hanged in Scranton .

Shebeen is now also the name for bars in the slums in the countries of southern Africa , in particular South Africa , Namibia (there also seldom called Cuca Shop as in Angola ) and Lesotho . During the apartheid era , shebeens were important places where not only neighbors but also political activists met.

Shebeens are usually simply furnished: corrugated iron ceilings and walls, an often barred bar, a few bar stools , a pool table , slot machines, posters on the walls and often advertising gimmicks from various breweries . As a rule, they do not meet the hygienic requirements of a bar. You can usually drink home-brewed beer (depending on the region, for example umqombothi or joala ), bottled or canned beer from breweries, schnapps , wine and soft drinks .

Namibia

Around Windhoek alone , their number is estimated at around 6,000, many of which do not have the necessary business license. In Namibia, many operators are organized in the Namibia Retailing Traders Association (NRTA) and the Namibia Shebeen Association (Nasa). This is committed to legalizing these gifts.