Beyond the Ban: Finding effective solutions to Uganda’s alcohol problem

By Odeke Bazel 

In the intricate tapestry of Ugandan life, alcohol threads its way through cultural rituals, social gatherings, and economic livelihoods. Yet, like a river that’s lost its course, excessive alcohol consumption threatens to engulf the very fabric of our society.

The Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023, aims to stem the tide, but will its restrictive measures merely dam the river, or will they divert us towards a more nuanced solution that honors our heritage while healing our harm?

To answer this question, we must consider the potential unintended consequences of the bill’s restrictive measures. By imposing blanket restrictions on sale hours and packaging, the government risks stifling innovation and entrepreneurship, leading to a loss of livelihoods and economic opportunities. This could further entrench poverty and inequality, exacerbating the very problems the bill seeks to address.

Moreover, the bill’s focus on prohibition rather than harm reduction is a flawed approach. Prohibition has been tried and failed in many countries, leading to a thriving black market and increased crime. In contrast, harm reduction strategies, such as education and treatment programs, have been proven to be more effective in reducing alcohol-related harm.

The bill’s failure to address the root causes of excessive consumption, such as poverty, unemployment, and social inequality, is a glaring omission. Until we address these underlying issues, we will continue to treat the symptoms rather than the cause. It’s like trying to hold back a flood with a broken levee – we must fix the foundation before we can hope to stem the tide.

Furthermore, the bill’s success relies heavily on effective implementation by law enforcement agencies, such as police officers. However, the hypocrisy of expecting these same officers to enforce restrictive measures while they themselves consume alcohol undermines the bill’s credibility. We must address this disconnect and ensure that our approach is consistent and compassionate.

The government’s approach may be seen as an attack on cultural practices and economic livelihoods, leading to resistance from communities and industries. Alcohol plays a significant role in many Ugandan cultural and social norms, and restricting access to alcohol may exacerbate social isolation and existing social problems. We must find a balance between protecting our heritage and protecting our people.

In conclusion, let us not try to dam the river of alcohol consumption with brittle walls of prohibition. Instead, let us learn to navigate its currents with wisdom and compassion. By embracing a nuanced approach that honors our cultural heritage and addresses the root causes of harm, we can create a safer, healthier, and more just society for all.

The author is a Researcher Political Commentator and a Social Worker