The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (SAAPA) welcomes the new national alcohol norms and standards released by the Minster of Trade and Industry.
Image courtesy of Naypong – FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Standardizing opening and closing hours nationally and ‘no guns and knives’ in outlets will contribute significantly to the reduction in alcohol attributable deaths and injuries in residential areas. Currently, police statistics indicate the hours after 12pm on weekends as the critical period within which interpersonal violence occurs around shebeen areas.
“South Africa is following the international trend and WHO recommendations to regulate alcohol trade. Countries like Thailand and Australia have seen the benefits of increased regulation, where deaths and injuries dropped after its introduction.” Said Mphonyane Mofokeng, Chairperson of SAAPA.
“We also welcome the fact that alcohol and it potential harm is being addressed by other Ministries and not only the Department of Health. Comprehensive and inter-departmental action is required to address South Africa’s number one drug problem,” She continued. “We look forward to the enactment of the Advertising Bill in 2015. Banning of the advertising of alcohol products, including sport sponsorship will add to the positive steps the government is taking to protecting citizens from alcohol attributable harm,” she concluded.
SAAPA is a collaborative initiative between seven Southern African countries including Namibia, Malawi, Madagascar, Zambia, Botswana, Lesotho and South Africa. The alliance harmonizes and accelerates alcohol policy development in the region.
For more information please contact:
Aadielah Maker: saapa.za@gmail.com
www.saapa.net