×
  • HOME
  • NEWS
  • ENTERTAINMENT
  • HOT 100
  • SOCIAL
  • FEATURED
  • ×
    close
    profile photo
    National

    THE ALCOHOL CONTROL BILL: Controversy takes lead in Controversial Bill

    548 views
    THE ALCOHOL CONTROL BILL: Controversy takes lead in Controversial Bill
    • February 28, 2024 • 1 year ago
    in summary
    The Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) and cultural stakeholders expressed concerns about the potential negative impacts of the proposed Alcohol Drinks Control Bill, 2023, during a parliamentary session. They highlighted the significant economic contributions of the alcohol industry and warned of job losses and revenue reduction if the bill is enacted.

    The Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) and stakeholders from the culture and creatives industry have raised alarm over the potential ramifications of the proposed Alcohol Drinks Control Bill, 2023, warning that it could have severe adverse effects on the economy and cultural sectors.

    Appearing before parliamentary committees on Health and Trade, Private Sector Foundation (PSFU)emphasized the significant contribution of the alcohol industry to the national treasury, citing over one trillion shillings in taxes and more than 35 percent of the tax base. They cautioned that enactment of the bill could result in job losses, revenue reduction, and the crippling of the alcohol manufacturing sector, ultimately impacting Uganda's tourism industry, which heavily relies on vibrant nightlife.

    Dr. Julius Byaruhanga, the director of Policy and Business Development at PSFU, highlighted the potential ripple effects of the proposed law across all sectors, expressing concerns about its impact on businesses and livelihoods.

    Brought by Tororo Woman MP Hon. Sarah Opendi, the bill aims to regulate the manufacture, sale, and consumption of alcoholic drinks. It proposes restrictions on alcohol sales, limiting operating hours between 5 pm and 10 pm on weekdays and prohibiting sales after midnight on weekends. Violators could face hefty fines or imprisonment.

    PSFU criticized the proposed time restrictions, suggesting they may not effectively reduce alcohol consumption and could lead to increased home consumption. Representatives from the culture and creatives industry echoed these sentiments, arguing that limited hours would curtail their business opportunities as many patrons’ frequent establishments during nighttime hours.

    Moreover, stakeholders voiced concerns over stringent licensing requirements, particularly the proximity restrictions on bars and regulations on alcohol advertisements. They fear these measures could stifle business innovation and threaten the livelihoods of individuals in the gig economy, such as influencers, Deejays, MC’s, waiters and waitresses, bouncers, bar cleaners and brand ambassadors among others.

    Additionally, PSFU raised alarms about the exemption of native liquor for domestic use, warning of potential risks associated with increased illicit trade. Stakeholders also opposed the requirement for bars to be located a certain distance from schools or fuel stations, citing limitations on venue availability for cultural events and performances.

    However, Mbarara Woman MP Hon. Margaret Ayebare, chairing the committee meeting, questioned whether the concerns raised by business players adequately considered public health implications.

    As debates continue, the proposed Alcohol Drinks Control Bill remains a contentious issue, sparking discussions about the balance between economic interests, cultural preservation, and public health in Uganda.

    Leave a Comment below about this story


    In other related News

    Government seeks funding to bridge USAID Aid gap, releases UGX 163 Billion for Schools
    Government seeks funding to bridge USAID Aid gap, releases UGX 163 Billion for Schools
    ...
    Security excesses in Kawempe North by-elections condemned
    Security excesses in Kawempe North by-elections condemned
    ...
    Womens Day in Style: Beefeater Cocktail Celebrates Female Excellence
    Womens Day in Style: Beefeater Cocktail Celebrates Female Excellence
    ...
    Police patrols to go electric to combat climate change
    Police patrols to go electric to combat climate change
    ...
    Gabon junta faces three others candidates in presidential election
    Gabon junta faces three others candidates in presidential election
    ...
    We Are Deliberate At Empowering Women, President Museveni Assures Ugandans
    We Are Deliberate At Empowering Women, President Museveni Assures Ugandans
    ...
    Related Posts
    We Are Deliberate At Empowering Women, President Museveni Assures Ugandans
    We Are Deliberate At Empowering Women, President Museveni Assures Ugandans
    3 days ago
    Gabon junta faces three others candidates in presidential election
    Gabon junta faces three others candidates in presidential election
    3 days ago

     

    Today's Hot Stories
    1
    The Role of Storytelling in Preserving Ugandan Heritage
    The Role of Storytelling in Preserving Ugandan Heritage
    Featured
    2
    The Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Computer Engineering.
    The Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Computer Engineering.
    Featured
    3
    UNEB outs 2023 S6 RESULTS: Record Pass Rate Achieved, Many Qualify for University
    UNEB outs 2023 S6 RESULTS: Record Pass Rate Achieved, Many Qualify for University
    National
    4
    Gabon junta faces three others candidates in presidential election
    Gabon junta faces three others candidates in presidential election
    International
    5
    Douglas sends Pictorial message to the president
    Douglas sends Pictorial message to the president
    Entertainment
    6
    Challenges Encountered With The Use Of Learning Management Systems (Lms).
    Challenges Encountered With The Use Of Learning Management Systems (Lms).
    Featured
    7
    Minister clarifies on UNEB
    Minister clarifies on UNEB's new curriculum grading for Ordinary Level
    Featured
    8
    Government seeks funding to bridge USAID Aid gap, releases UGX 163 Billion for Schools
    Government seeks funding to bridge USAID Aid gap, releases UGX 163 Billion for Schools
    National
    9
    WHO IS OBED LUTALE? - The less-Known Man arrested with Dr. Besigye?
    WHO IS OBED LUTALE? - The less-Known Man arrested with Dr. Besigye?
    National
    10
    Minister Balaam supports General Muhoozi
    Minister Balaam supports General Muhoozi's resolve to save Haiti from gang violence.
    Politics
    Listen to Music on Nowviba