Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-02-29 16:45:59
A group of farmers and bar owners recently appealed to Parliament to shift its focus to more urgent issues such as unemployment and corruption, rather than concentrating on symptoms like alcohol regulation. They expressed their concerns before Parliament’s Committees on Health and Trade, which were reviewing the Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill, 2023 on February 29.
The proposed bill aims to restrict the hours of alcohol sales at bars to between 5pm and 10pm on weekdays, and also introduces strict licensing and location requirements. For instance, it mandates that bars and production plants must be at least 400m away from schools, fuel stations, and residential areas.
Stakeholders argue that these additional regulations are not the most critical priorities for the country, and they fear that the bill could have negative impacts on the economy, employment, and social cohesion if implemented. The Legit Entertainment, Bars and Restaurant Owners’ Association, representing over 2,400 bar and entertainment venue owners nationwide, emphasized the need to address the root causes driving excessive alcohol consumption before enforcing restrictive laws that could harm livelihoods.
Ms. Phina Mugerwa from the Uganda Musicians Association echoed similar sentiments, urging Parliament to consider the broader societal implications of the proposed bill. Bar owners suggested alternative operating hours from 2pm to 4am to balance economic contributions and workforce sustainability.
The bill, sponsored by Tororo Woman MP Ms. Sarah Opendi, presents a delicate balance between economic benefits and the risks associated with alcohol consumption. The Private Sector Foundation reports that the alcohol sector contributes significantly to tax revenue, with four of the top 20 taxpayers coming from this industry.
On the other hand, Mr. Henry Mugara Musinguzi, Chairperson of the Barley Farmers Association in Kabale District, raised concerns about the potential impact of increased regulations on raw material suppliers. He highlighted the significant number of farmers employed in the industry and warned that limiting bar operating hours could decrease demand for grains and other raw materials.
Proponents of stricter alcohol regulations argue that unregulated drinking poses risks to the youth population, leading to addiction and health complications like cancer. Experts from the Uganda Cancer Institute recently identified alcohol as one of the top causes of cancer in the country.
Representatives from the Uganda Alcohol Industry Association urged Parliament to prioritize addressing the issue of illicit alcohol, which circumvents production standards and tax obligations. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to tackling alcohol-related challenges, including both regulatory measures and addressing underlying issues driving excessive consumption.
In conclusion, while the debate on alcohol regulation continues, it is essential for Parliament to consider a comprehensive approach that balances economic interests, public health concerns, and the livelihoods of those involved in the alcohol industry. Finding a middle ground that addresses the root causes of alcohol-related problems while safeguarding economic stability and employment opportunities will be crucial for making informed policy decisions.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
