Health Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi has welcomed the government’s directive banning the sale of alcohol during morning hours, saying the measure could help reduce alcohol-related health problems, road accidents and other incidents linked to excessive drinking.Baryomunsi said the Ministry of Health has consistently supported stronger measures aimed at controlling harmful alcohol consumption and protecting Ugandans from its effects.“We have always wanted measures that protect the lives and health of Ugandans who suffer from problems caused by excessive alcohol consumption,” Baryomunsi said.He made the remarks during a meeting with civil society organisations in Kampala that are advocating for responsible alcohol consumption.
The organisations, operating under the Uganda Alcohol Policy Alliance, brought together stakeholders to discuss ways of supporting the government in implementing the directive on morning alcohol sales.They said they have campaigned for stronger alcohol-control measures for years, citing the growing health and social consequences associated with harmful drinking.The groups also expressed concern about alcohol-related road accidents and other incidents, saying effective enforcement of the directive could help reduce cases linked to alcohol abuse.They urged Ugandans to support the government’s efforts, arguing that the measures are aimed at protecting lives and promoting public health.Hafuswa Lukwata, a commissioner at the Ministry of Health, said the ministry had already begun working with several districts to ensure that local bylaws regulating alcohol consumption are implemented.
“We have already started working with several districts to ensure that bylaws regulating alcohol consumption are put into practice,” Lukwata said.He urged district leaders to take action and enforce alcohol-control regulations in their respective areas.Baryomunsi also commended civil society organisations for their continued advocacy for stronger regulation of alcohol consumption.He revealed that the Ministry of Health is preparing legislation to be presented to Parliament as part of efforts to further regulate alcohol use and strengthen enforcement of existing measures.“We shall bring a law to Parliament to further regulate alcohol consumption and strengthen the enforcement of these measures,” Baryomunsi said.He called on Ugandans to support the initiative, saying effective regulation of alcohol consumption could help protect lives and contribute to a healthier society.
