SAAPA-SA urges Gqeberha Schools to rethink liquor license applications
March 18, 2025
Julian Jacobs
The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance South Africa (SAAPA-SA) strongly urges Grey High School and DF Malherbe High School in Gqeberha to rethink their applications for liquor licenses. In the case of Grey High School, it is associated with their upcoming rugby tournament. Sports and alcohol do not go together. Grey’s most famous alumni, Siya Kolisi, and his struggles with alcohol is a case in point. Whilst he has been able to achieve despite his challenges, most young athletes won’t make it to the finish line once they start drinking.
SAAPA SA also urges the Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB) to reject liquor license applications in line with the new ECLB regulations which came into effect on the 1st of March, effectively banning schools from having liquor licenses and which reflect the provincial law of no alcohol trade within 500m of educational institutions. This regulation echoes the Department of Basic Education’s decision to withdraw the alcohol clause from the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) of the 2024 Act. And reflects the proposal in the stalled Liquor Amendment of 2016 which prohibits the sale of alcohol within 500 metres of schools and religious institutions.
“How will the ECLB address the longstanding yet unlawful practice of alcohol sales at school sporting events? We maintain that no liquor licenses, whether temporary or permanent, should be granted to schools,” said SAAPA-SA General Secretary, Aadielah Maker Diedericks.
This issue extends beyond the Eastern Cape. Across South Africa, schools are routinely allowed to sell alcohol at cultural and sporting events, normalising alcohol consumption in environments meant for young people.
“This is a clear violation of the intention of the Liquor Act and Education Act to protect learners, except in the case of the Western Cape legalised alcohol sales by schools, and all Liquor Boards across South Africa must enforce the law. We cannot justify alcohol sales near minors by citing tradition,” Maker Diedericks asserted.
SAAPA-SA is also calling on the Minister of Basic Education to intervene, especially since the clause on alcohol was removed from the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act of 2024 following extensive public consultation. Additionally, SAAPA-SA urges the Ministers of Sport, Mr Gayton McKenzie, and Basic Education, Ms. Siviwe Gwarube, to take a stand and protect learners and minors from exposure and normalisation of alcohol.
It is alarming that schools and their governing bodies are seeking partnerships with alcohol companies or relying on alcohol sales to fund amateur sporting events. The presence of alcohol at school sports festivals exposes children to harm, normalises alcohol, negatively impacts athletic performance, and constitutes indirect advertising to young attendees. These risks far outweigh any potential benefits, making it imperative to prioritise a safer, more supportive environment for young athletes and their families.
SAAPA-SA remains committed to advocating for policies that safeguard the health and well-being of communities, particularly within and around educational institutions.
Background: Grey High School and DF Malherbe High School have applied for permission to sell alcohol during sporting and cultural events, including the upcoming Grey Rugby Festival, scheduled for 29–31 March.
