Uganda has ordered bars and other alcohol-selling establishments, including Malwa joints, to remain closed until 3 p.m. on working days as part of a government crackdown on early-morning drinking.
The directive was issued by Minister of Local Government Balaam Barugahara on Tuesday, August 11, and requires local authorities to enforce restrictions on the operating hours of alcohol outlets.
The move is aimed at discouraging people from spending their mornings drinking instead of working and addressing social problems linked to excessive alcohol consumption.
According to the minister, early-morning drinking has contributed to issues including idleness, family difficulties and rising crime in some communities.
Under the directive, Uganda bars, Malwa joints and other establishments that sell alcohol must not open before 3 p.m. on working days.
However, enforcement of the restriction will remain subject to applicable national laws, licensing requirements and lawful regulations issued by local governments.
“Bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments should not open before 3:00 p.m. on working days,” the statement said.
The minister warned that operators who repeatedly disregard lawful directives on operating hours could face closure.
He also directed local authorities to take appropriate enforcement action against persistent offenders in accordance with the law.
“Local leaders should take the lead in discouraging early-morning alcohol consumption and work with security agencies and enforcement teams to ensure that bars and alcohol outlets do not operate in a manner that encourages people to spend their mornings drinking instead of working,” the statement added.
The directive means Uganda bars and other alcohol outlets will face tighter restrictions on their operating hours as the government seeks to curb early-morning drinking and its wider social effects.
Local authorities have been tasked with leading enforcement efforts and working with security agencies to ensure compliance with the new directive.
By : Rachael Djabakie