Activists call for urgent action on alcohol regulations to safeguard communities

Concerned community groups from Mitchell’s Plain to Langa are calling for stronger measures to curb the availability of alcohol and protect vulnerable residents from its harmful effects.

Led by the Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (SAAPA), activists marched to Parliament on Wednesday, February 18, to highlight the impact of alcohol abuse in communities, particularly on children.

After the march, Mitchell’s Plain Community Police Forum chairperson Michael Jacobs said civil society organisations had to take the fight forward. He said residents would not stand by while young people and entire communities suffer.

“We marched because we are deeply concerned. We cannot remain passive while our communities face such dire situations. Alcohol is ruining families,” he said.

Mr Jacobs added that alcohol abuse significantly contributed to the high murder rates on the Cape Flats.

“We are calling for stronger measures to curb alcohol availability. Alcohol is too cheap, even cheaper than a loaf of bread,” he said.

Among the concerns outlined were hospitals overwhelmed by alcohol-related injuries, families torn apart by violence, children growing up in unsafe environments, and road crashes that rob communities of life and potential.

Nombuso Mvimbi from Nyanga, who joined the march, said she has witnessed the damaging effects of alcohol in her neighbourhood. She believes alcohol is linked to many crimes in Nyanga and the surrounding areas.

“We have to stand up against alcohol. The price of alcohol is excessively low and should be increased. I joined the march because I know what alcohol does to our communities. We need to march consistently until the government works with us,” she said.

Lentegeur community activist Shahiem van Nelson also voiced concern, stating that communities must continue opposing the proliferation of alcohol outlets. He noted that many outlets operate near schools, mosques, and churches.

“There are too many outlets, and people are quiet about it. We must continue the fight,” he said, adding that he hopes the march will lead to positive outcomes.

In a statement, SAAPA said it aimed to ensure that civil society plays an active role in addressing the challenge of harmonising and accelerating alcohol policy development in the region.

“Let us ensure that the price of alcohol reflects its true cost to our nation. Let us choose policies that protect life, dignity, and the future of our children,” the organisation said, adding that it submitted a memorandum and looks forward to meaningful engagement with the government.

Marchers included civil society organisations, community health workers, neighbourhood watch members, and representatives of the community policing forum from Mitchell’s Plain, Gugulethu, Khayelitsha, Manenberg, and other areas.

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