The Alcohol Control Bill, 2022 seeks to have all persons trading in alcoholic drinks and premises where alcoholic drinks are sold licensed.

It goes without mention that previously, parliament of Uganda accorded leave to the Bukoto West County legislator, Muhammad Ssenteyi to process consumer protection and management Bill, 2022, which seeks to protect consumers from exploitation.

In the Bill, industries will have to pay a licensing fee to be determined by the ministers or the district council – to be renewed annually.

The Bill prohibits sell of alcohol to specific persons and regulates advertisement of alcoholic drinks. It seeks to ensure public awareness on the dangers of alcohol abuse.

Ms. Opendi submitted to the house that there is need for a new bill and the time was at hand since the old laws on alcohol like; the Liquor Act, Portable spirits Act among others had become obsolete. She further told the house that; substance abuse or unregulated use is associated with violence, traffic accidents and non-communicable diseases.

According to the Bill, persons found selling alcoholic drinks without licenses face up to 5 years imprisonment or a fine of 10 million while importers face up to 10 years imprisonment or a fine of 20 million or both.

Courtesy photo.