Masindi's alcohol ordinance stalls amid implementation challenges
Moris Ogenyi, Executive Director of Alpha Action For Social Economic Development (AASED), attributed the ordinance's failure to lack of a budget for implementation. He also cited the absence of public sensitisation and the fact that some civil servants and other officials responsible for enforcement own bars.
William Mwambu, the Masindi District Council Secretary for Social Services and councillor representing persons with disabilities. (Photo by Yosam Gucwaki)
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MASINDI — A 2020 alcohol ordinance aimed at curbing excessive drinking and protecting children in Masindi district has largely remained unenforced, raising concerns among residents and local leaders.
The ordinance stipulated that bar operating hours should start at 5:00pm and end at 10:00pm on weekdays and from 2:00pm up to 10:00pm on weekends, has been rendered ineffective due to lack of resources, lack of public awareness, and potential conflict of interest among civil servants and other enforcers. The ordinance also prohibited the sale of alcohol to minors.
Penalties for violations included license cancellation, six-month imprisonment, or a fine of two currency points (sh40,000). Each currency point is equivalent to sh20,000.
Moris Ogenyi, Executive Director of Alpha Action For Social Economic Development (AASED), attributed the ordinance's failure to lack of a budget for implementation.
AASED is a Ugandan non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the quality of life for communities, especially among young people, through sustainable development. Through programmes in sustainable development, health and environment, education and sports, and human rights, AASED works to build resilient, empowered, and equitable communities across Uganda.
He stressed the need for community awareness campaigns, dedicated funding, and stricter enforcement mechanisms.
Ogenyi further expressed scepticism about the enforceability of a recent directive from the Minister for Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, for bars to open at 3:00pm, citing a history of unimplemented government regulations.
William Mwambu, the Masindi District Councilor for Persons with Disability and Secretary for Social Services, championed the ordinance in 2020 to address widespread alcoholism and the involvement of children in bar activities.
While the council passed the ordinance, Mwambu clarified that it has not yet been endorsed by the Attorney General and the Ministry of Local Government.
Mwambu announced an upcoming meeting with the security team, including the Resident District Commissioner, to strategise on implementing the directive.
He warned bar operators against opening before 3:00pm, threatening license revocation.
Rogers Kanti, a Masindi resident, told New Vision online that regulating alcohol consumption is challenging in Uganda due to its deep cultural roots and significant contribution to national revenue.
He echoed concerns about the Government's inability to implement such directives, noting past failures, including attempts by former President Milton Obote.
Solomon Mugisa, the Albertine North Regional Community liaison officer and Acting Regional Police Spokesperson, said they have not yet received official guidelines from the Inspector General of Police regarding the new directive.
However, he assured local leaders that police would implement the minister's directive once instructions are received and urged members of the community to drink responsibly and avoid drinking during morning hours.