By News Reporter
The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (SAAPA) Botswana has called on government to reconsider its decision to extend alcohol trading hours during the upcoming Presidential Holidays, warning that the move could lead to an increase in alcohol-related harm across the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, SAAPA Botswana said while it recognises the importance of the holidays as a time for national celebration, family gatherings and community events, expanding access to alcohol could place young people, road users and households at greater risk.
“While SAAPA Botswana acknowledges that holidays are an important time for national pride, family gatherings, and community celebration, the organisation cautions that increasing access to alcohol during this period may place young people, road users, households, and public services at greater risk,” the organisation said.
The organisation cited findings from government-led public health assessments which indicate that many young people begin consuming alcohol at an early age and that binge drinking remains common among youth during holiday periods. According to SAAPA, alcohol-related harms such as road traffic crashes, violence and risky behaviour also tend to rise during these times.
“These findings reinforce longstanding concerns that youth are disproportionately affected by alcohol-related harm, undermining their health, education, and future productivity,” SAAPA said.
SAAPA further linked alcohol consumption to broader economic challenges, arguing that alcohol misuse contributes to rising healthcare costs, reduced workplace productivity, household financial strain and increased pressure on law enforcement and emergency services.
“Alcohol misuse is not only a health issue, it is a developmental and economic issue that directly impacts national growth and stability,” the statement said.
“While the intention may be to accommodate holiday activity, the likely public health and safety consequences cannot be overlooked,” SAAPA said. “Public health evidence shows that greater availability of alcohol is associated with increased consumption and higher levels of alcohol-related harm.”
The alliance said public health evidence consistently shows that greater alcohol availability is associated with higher consumption levels and increased harm.
“While the intention may be to accommodate holiday activity, the likely public health and safety consequences cannot be overlooked,” SAAPA said. “Public health evidence shows that greater availability of alcohol is associated with increased consumption and higher levels of alcohol-related harm.”
The organisation warned that the effects could become more visible during the holiday period through higher levels of harmful drinking, greater strain on emergency and health services, and increased exposure of young people to alcohol-related risks. It urged government to reverse the extension and prioritise measures that protect lives, families and communities.
“Safer celebrations require clear regulation, responsible choices, and a shared commitment to reducing preventable harm,” the organisation said.
Addressing young people directly, SAAPA said celebrations should not come at the expense of health, safety or future ambitions.
“Your future is your greatest asset. Celebrations should not come at the cost of your health, safety, or ambitions,” the organisation said.
“Make informed and safer choices around alcohol, avoid peer pressure and risky environments, look out for your friends and community, and celebrate in ways that are safe, meaningful, and empowering.”
SAAPA concluded by calling on communities, families, businesses and government to work together to reduce alcohol-related harm during the Presidential Holidays.
“The Presidential Holidays should be marked by unity, reflection, and safe celebration,” the organisation said. “Protecting public health, safety, and national wellbeing must remain the priority.”
