Summary:

• The proposed Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023 in Uganda, championed by legislator Sarah Opendi, aims to regulate alcohol consumption, addressing concerns about vulnerable populations, alcohol-related issues, and unregulated production.

Tororo Woman legislator, Sarah Opendi, clarified that the proposed Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023 in Uganda is geared towards regulating, not prohibiting, alcohol consumption. During a session with MPs from the Health and Trade committees, Opendi underscored the bill’s focus on safeguarding vulnerable populations and reducing alcohol-related accidents and HIV infections.

Addressing concerns about the bill’s impact on politicians, Opendi explained that it would restrict politicians from buying alcohol for voters during working hours once passed. The legislation also targets unregulated alcohol, with Opendi revealing that 65% of alcohol produced in Uganda lacks clearance from the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS).

The proposed bill encompasses various regulations, including prohibiting alcohol sales to individuals under 18, law enforcement officers, and in public transportation. Opendi highlighted specific restrictions on alcohol sales during weekdays (5 pm to 10 pm) and weekends (midday to midnight), citing concerns about the high crime rate. She clarified that individuals remain free to purchase and consume alcoholic drinks at their discretion within their homes.

Emphasizing accountability, Opendi stated that the bill would impose penalties on leaders providing alcohol to voters during working hours and campaign periods. Responding to committee queries, she defended the introduction of a new bill instead of amending existing laws, citing the urgency to address current gaps in alcohol regulation.

Despite objections from Busia Municipality legislator Geoffrey Macho, who questioned the attendance of MPs on boycott, committee chairperson Dr. Sam Opio ruled him out of order. If passed, the Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill 2023 aims to comprehensively regulate the manufacture, importation, sale, consumption, and advertisement of alcoholic beverages in Uganda.