AWARE.org and JMPD renew commitment to safer roads
The organisations marked four years of collaboration with a demonstration of alcohol testing procedures and a focus on preventing driving under the influence.
AWARE.org and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) marked years of partnership at the Alcohol Evidence Centre (AEC) in Dube, Soweto, on October 13.
The event gave attendees an opportunity to observe roadside screening and evidential breath alcohol testing (EBAT), tour the AEC, and learn how enforcement, evidence collection, and prevention contribute to road safety.
“This partnership has shown us that we can achieve more by working with other stakeholders than through law enforcement alone,” said JMPD Acting Deputy Director and Superintendent Mike Botolo.
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“The work does not end when a motorist is stopped. Proper testing, evidence handling, and case management are important to ensuring that suspected offences can proceed through the criminal justice system.”
The work combines enforcement support, public education, and research, including a review of 26 578 recorded driving under the influence (DUI) arrests between January 2023 and December 2025.
Following roadside screening, motorists suspected of DUI may be referred to the AEC for evidential breath testing, as the centre has a dedicated EBAT testing room, holding room, and administrative facilities that support testing, documentation, and evidence collection for case management.
AWARE.org has supported the JMPD with specialised equipment, technical assistance, and capacity.
Speaking at the event, Sola Oke, CEO of Pernod Ricard Africa and newly appointed AWARE.org chairperson, said: “Reducing alcohol-related harm requires shared responsibility. By connecting enforcement with evidence-led prevention and public education, we can work towards safer roads and more informed decisions.”
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The partnership reflects a whole-of-society approach to reducing alcohol-related harm, bringing together government institutions, civil society, businesses, and communities.
AWARE.org CEO Mokebe Thulo said that over the past four years, the partnership has shown the importance of connecting enforcement with prevention and education to encourage safer behaviour and reduce alcohol-related harm.
The event included a handover of a signed partnership pledge, road safety collateral, and equipment to the JMPD, supported by AWARE.org members South African Liquor Brandowners Association (SALBA), Pernod Ricard, and Heineken Beverages.
