Mgobodzi residents demand higher alcohol taxes
Community leaders plan to submit a formal petition to the National Treasury by the end of August, seeking earmarked funds for local social development.
The petition, led by Princess Somuhle of the Mawewe Royal House, called for additional revenue generated from alcohol taxes to be earmarked for prevention programmes, treatment services and community development initiatives.
The petition followed a community dialogue that brought together civil organisations, traditional and faith leaders, national, provincial and municipal government representatives, young people and locals.
Discussions focused on the social and economic impact of alcohol abuse on communities and the need for stronger measures to reduce alcohol-related harm.
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Alcohol cheaper than basic food
Somuhle said alcohol has become too affordable, particularly in poorer communities.
“I’ve noticed that often, especially in villages and townships, alcoholic beverages cost the same as, or in some cases even less than, essential items such as bread,” she said.
“Higher taxes would make alcohol less affordable and encourage struggling families to prioritise essential food items.”
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Nomcebo Dlamini of the Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance South Africa said increasing alcohol taxes was one of the most effective ways to reduce alcohol-related harm.
She said alcohol taxation was recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as one of its best practices for reducing alcohol-related harm, adding that the WHO SAFER initiative identified higher excise taxes as one of the most effective interventions governments could implement.
Traditional leaders back campaign
The deputy chairperson of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders, Nkosi Langa Mavuso, said traditional leaders had an important role to play in addressing alcohol abuse.
“By participating in and helping to organise dialogues like these, traditional leaders lend their moral authority to address an issue that negatively affects not only young people but entire communities,” he said.
“Meaningful change can only happen when every sector of society works together to tackle the social problems associated with alcohol use.”
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The petition will be formally submitted to the National Treasury by the end of August, with community leaders hoping it will influence future alcohol taxation policies and contribute to reducing alcohol-related harm across South Africa.
