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Responsible drinking: A better approach to alcohol regulation in Uganda
Addressing alcohol-related harm requires effective regulation, public awareness and responsible drinking, rather than relying solely on restrictions on bar operating hours, writes Byansi Ponsiano
Byansi Ponsiano. (File)
By: Admin ., Journalist @New Vision
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OPINION
By Byansi Ponsiano
Alcohol consumption and its associated social and public-health effects remain important concerns in Uganda. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO, 2023), Uganda’s estimated annual alcohol consumption stood at 12.2 litres per person, exceeding both the African regional average of 6.3 litres and the global average of 6.18 litres. The WHO also identifies harmful alcohol use as a source of significant health, social and economic consequences.
Similarly, New Vision (2026), in its article on the implementation challenges facing Masindi’s alcohol ordinance, reported difficulties enforcing regulations intended to curb excessive drinking and prevent children from accessing alcohol. These reports highlight the importance of addressing harmful alcohol consumption through effective regulation, public awareness and responsible behaviour.
Several measures have been introduced or proposed to address alcohol-related harm in Uganda. These include restrictions on the operating hours of alcohol-selling establishments, enforcement of licensing requirements and prohibitions on selling alcohol to persons below 18 years.
Similarly, New Vision (2026), in its article on the implementation challenges facing Masindi’s alcohol ordinance, reported difficulties enforcing regulations intended to curb excessive drinking and prevent children from accessing alcohol. These reports highlight the importance of addressing harmful alcohol consumption through effective regulation, public awareness and responsible behaviour.
Several measures have been introduced or proposed to address alcohol-related harm in Uganda. These include restrictions on the operating hours of alcohol-selling establishments, enforcement of licensing requirements and prohibitions on selling alcohol to persons below 18 years.
However, Daily Monitor (2026), in “Leaders, bar owners on regulating drinking hours,” reported mixed reactions to restrictions on operating hours and concerns about the challenges of enforcement. These developments demonstrate that introducing regulations is only one part of the solution. Effective implementation, public sensitisation and cooperation among consumers, business owners and enforcement authorities are also important in promoting responsible alcohol consumption.
In my opinion, responsible drinking offers a more balanced approach to alcohol regulation in Uganda than an exclusive focus on opening and closing hours. Licensed establishments have a responsibility to prevent underage drinking, discourage violence and minimise public disturbance.
Consumers also have a duty to understand their limits, avoid driving after drinking and make informed decisions about alcohol consumption. Effective regulation targets harmful behaviour while protecting public safety and allowing compliant businesses to operate lawfully. A culture of responsible drinking, supported by consistent enforcement and public education, can help reduce alcohol-related harm while respecting individual freedom and legitimate business interests.
The writer is a MBA Student at MUBS
In my opinion, responsible drinking offers a more balanced approach to alcohol regulation in Uganda than an exclusive focus on opening and closing hours. Licensed establishments have a responsibility to prevent underage drinking, discourage violence and minimise public disturbance.
Consumers also have a duty to understand their limits, avoid driving after drinking and make informed decisions about alcohol consumption. Effective regulation targets harmful behaviour while protecting public safety and allowing compliant businesses to operate lawfully. A culture of responsible drinking, supported by consistent enforcement and public education, can help reduce alcohol-related harm while respecting individual freedom and legitimate business interests.
The writer is a MBA Student at MUBS