Sarah Opendi Proposes Stricter Regulation of Alcohol Sales in Uganda

By : Hason Mutunzi Bwambale 

Kampala, Uganda – In a bid to curb the rampant issue of alcohol abuse and its related consequences, Hon. Sarah Opendi, the Tororo District Woman Representative, has tabled the Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023. The bill, if passed, will enforce strict regulations on the sale of alcoholic drinks in Uganda.

One of the key provisions in the bill, as proposed by Hon. Opendi, is the restriction of selling alcoholic drinks to a limited number of hours. During working days, alcohol sales would be limited to a five-hour window between 17:00 hours (5:00 PM) and 22:00 hours (10:00 PM). However, on weekends and public holidays, the sale of alcohol would be allowed from 12:00 hours (12:00 PM) until 00:00 hours (midnight).

The proposed bill also includes severe penalties for those found violating these regulations. Anyone caught selling alcoholic drinks before 17:00 hours or after 22:00 hours on working days may face a jail term of up to 10 years or a fine of Shs20 million ($5,400). The significant penalties aim to serve as a deterrent and discourage unscrupulous individuals from engaging in illicit alcohol trades.

Hon. Opendi believes that imposing such restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages will help reduce alcohol-related issues and improve public health. Alcohol abuse has become a growing concern in Uganda, affecting individuals of all age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds. The proposed bill intends to address this issue head-on.

According to Hon. Opendi, limiting the accessibility and availability of alcohol during specific timings will discourage excessive consumption and minimize the risk of alcohol-related harm within society. By tightening regulations on alcohol sales, the bill also aims to protect children and vulnerable populations from the negative effects of excessive drinking.

However, the proposed bill has also attracted mixed reactions from various stakeholders. Supporters argue that it is a necessary step towards controlling alcohol abuse and protecting public health. Critics, on the other hand, argue that such limitations on alcohol sales may negatively impact businesses and infringe upon individual freedoms.

Should the Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023 be passed into law, it is expected to have far-reaching implications for Uganda’s alcohol industry and promote a safer and healthier society. The bill will now undergo further deliberations and scrutiny by relevant committees before a final decision is made.

As the country grapples with the issue of alcohol abuse, it remains to be seen how the proposed regulations will be received by lawmakers and the wider public.