Archival Sense
JF-Expert Member
- Dec 16, 2025
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The Ministry of Local Government has directed local authorities across Uganda to tighten enforcement of alcohol regulations, including requiring bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol selling establishments to open no earlier than 3pm on working days.
The directive, issued on August 11, 2026, by Minister in charge of Local Government Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, also orders local authorities and security agencies to take action against alcohol sellers who provide alcohol to persons below the age of 18.
The minister directed all LC5 chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors and council speakers to implement the measures with immediate effect.
Photo courtesy of The Independent
Under the directive, bar owners, shop owners, operators of Malwa joints and other alcohol selling establishments who sell or supply alcohol to people under 18 should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Local authorities and security agencies have been instructed to strictly enforce the requirement. Establishments that repeatedly violate the law should face appropriate sanctions.
The ministry has also directed local leaders to take the lead in discouraging early morning alcohol consumption, while working with security agencies and enforcement teams to ensure that bars and alcohol outlets do not operate in a manner that encourages people to spend their mornings drinking instead of working.
The ministry said the measure is intended to address what it described as idleness, family problems and rising crime associated with excessive alcohol consumption in communities.
It said the restrictions are aimed at promoting a productive and responsible population.
Persistent offenders should also face appropriate enforcement action in accordance with the law.
The directive extends beyond alcohol to the regulation of betting operations.
Photo Courtesy of The Global Press Institute
Local governments have been instructed to regulate the operating hours of betting companies within their respective jurisdictions, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
The ministry said the regulation is intended to protect communities, particularly young people, from harmful practices associated with excessive betting.
Joint security teams, council enforcement officers and other relevant authorities are expected to support local governments in implementing and enforcing the measures.
