MIDDELBURG – The Mpumalanga Anti-Substance Abuse Forum (MASAF) has attributed responsibility to the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator (MER) regarding the placement of liquor outlets in close proximity to schools, churches and hospitals.
The chairperson of MASAF, Marcus Masemola, addressed attendees at the two-day Mpumalanga Liquor Indaba held at the Banquet Hall in Middelburg from 8 to 9 October 2024.
Masemola conveyed his organisation’s apprehension about the escalating occurrence of taverns, nightclubs and bars being approved l near educational, religious and healthcare facilities.
“We vehemently oppose this emerging pattern in our vicinity and other regions within the province,” he asserted.
“We are genuinely perturbed and puzzled as to why the regulatory body would permit such establishments near schools, churches, and hospitals. Could it be due to vested interests,” he queried. “We cannot remain silent; we must vocally address this issue until it is rectified.”
Responding to the accusation, MER CEO, Vusi Mtsweni, retorted that the existing legislation in South Africa does not forbid liquor outlets from operating in close proximity to these establishments. “There is no statutory prohibition against this,” he clarified.
“Nevertheless, as the Regulatory body, we do take such concerns into consideration during the licensing procedures, hence we frequently modify trading hours for establishments near these sensitive sites to mitigate disruptions.”
The illegal alcohol trade also appears to be posing a significant threat to the country’s economy.
In his presentation, Dr. Shamal Ramesar, head of researcher at Drinks Federation of South Africa disclosed that since 2020, over 600 000 hectoliters of contraband alcohol have been uncovered in the country, resulting in a financial loss exceeding R20 billion annually.
Charlene Louw, the CEO of the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), highlighted the necessity of maintaining a judicious approach to liquor regulation. “It is imperative to carefully evaluate the repercussions and benefits of the alcohol industry,” she articulated.
“Merely wishing alcohol out of existence or regulating it to oblivion is not a viable solution. Such actions would inadvertently foster the proliferation of illicit alcohol, leading to exacerbated harm. Governments would suffer revenue losses, and healthcare expenditures would escalate significantly.”
