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By Bahle Gama
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Trade is taking a firm stance against liquor outlets operating near institutions of learning, courtesy of the successful passage into law of the Liquor Licences Act No.27 of 2023.
This move is driven by concerns over the negative influence such establishments may have on students and the broader educational environment.
Over the years, communities and church leaders in the country have been raising concerns about the proximity of liquor outlets to schools, colleges, and, including the potential for increased alcohol consumption among students, distractions from academic pursuits, and the promotion of unhealthy habits.
Minister Manqoba Khumalo said by restricting liquor outlets near learning institutions, the Ministry aims to create a more conducive environment for education, free from the temptations and disturbances associated with alcohol.
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Additionally, this policy underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing regulations that prioritise societal well-being and the protection of young people from undue exposure to alcohol-related activities.Minister Manqoba Khumalo met with the Liquor Licencing Board on Friday for commissioning where he mentioned that this measure is being implemented to protect consumers, and citizens and to promote a fair and competitive business environment.
The Ministry’s actions may involve stricter licensing requirements, non-renewal of licenses for non-compliant businesses, and increased inspections to ensure adherence to the law.
He said that while some business owners may view these measures as restrictive, they reflect the government’s broader goal of fostering a healthier and more productive society.
“To this end, we announce that the Liquor business opposite the University of Eswatini, Kwaluseni Campus license will not be renewed after receiving complaints from concerned citizens associated with the university,” he said.
Khumalo said the amended Act gives communities authority to report businesses that fail to comply with the terms of their licences and the law, especially institutions of learning, adding that all complaints will be handled with confidentiality, urgency, and decisiveness.
The law states that an adequate complaint should be signed by 10 or more adults within a radius of one kilometer from the establishment.
“This is to ensure that the complaint is lodged out of concern and not out of spite to have another business closed. Therefore, when it is 10 or more people it cements the graveness and concern,” said the Minister.
After thorough investigations and allegations of holding substance, an action to close that establishment will be taken.
He further stated that the Act gives communities authority to report or write a complaint to the Board when there’s a business that is breaching the rules and regulations imposed in terms of operating hours, and the location of their businesses.
“This year we will focus on the liquor outlets that are closer to schools. The Ministry of Education approached our Ministry and reported that school principals have raised an alarm about liquor outlets closer to schools.
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The good thing is that the Act addresses such, which is why when a business amongst those breaking the law arrives to renew a licence, that application will not be granted. Businesses should not kill our children,” Khumalo continued.
He further urged business owners and patrons not to disrupt the operations of the Board and REPS when embarking on an operation to assess and ensure establishments adhere to the terms of their licences and the law.
One advantage aspect that the Minister said has been amended is that the Board now has the authority to make decisions instantly where necessary without having to get approval from the Ministry.
“The board is urged to use the power in the Act fully. If there’s a need for regulations, for example, to enhance and explain in detail, we can do that. The board has the right to close any business that refuses to comply, and stubborn traders should be dealt with decisively,” Khumalo said.
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Khumalo applauded the REPS’ participation in the operations that the Board embarked on during the holidays to ensure that businesses adhere to the Act, adding that the grip should be tightened in implementing the Act.
“Government will also ensure the resources needed are provided, including personnel in the form of inspectors as the Board cannot reach all the necessary areas countrywide,” he said.
