South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged communities, the government, and civil society to work together to combat the issue of underage drinking.
This follows the tragic death of 21 young people, some of whom were as young as 13, at the Enyobeni Tavern at Scenery Park in the Eastern Cape early one Sunday morning.
The President stated that the rising trend of underage drinking is not only harmful psychologically and physically, but also illegal, in his weekly letter to the nation this morning.
“In a nation where the majority of drinkers are already considered binge drinkers by the World Health Organization, the rising societal acceptance of young people drinking alcohol has turned into a severe issue.
According to him, teen drinking is linked to reduced function, learning absences, injuries from drinking, suicidal thoughts and attempts, and dangerous behavior.
The Eastern Cape provincial government and the South African Police Service are both actively investigating the incident.
“To confront this evil that is robbing our youth of their prime years and rendering them vulnerable to alcohol addiction, we must band together.
“Setting boundaries and having honest conversations about drinking as a family are essential. Alcohol consumption by those under the age of 18 is prohibited by law.
President Ramaphosa added that as adults, “we should abstain from actions such as sending minors to acquire alcohol for us or caving in to pleas to buy these young people drink.”
The President noted that in areas where “options for safe and age-appropriate enjoyment are rare,” youngsters abusing alcohol “is a sort of escapism.”
“Following the tragedy, the locals have emphasized that Scenery Park lacks functional sports fields, neighborhood libraries, or youth centers.
“We need to establish additional recreational places, facilities, programs, and initiatives for our young people in underprivileged areas in the province,” he added.
“As government at national, provincial, and local level we need to react to the requests of this community and those of other communities.”
President Ramaphosa reaffirmed his appeal for all South Africans to unite in opposition to youth alcohol misuse.
“In order to take a more active part in the lives of our children and to ensure their safety and wellbeing, communities must collaborate with their local policing forums, civic groups, and school governing bodies.
“Let’s join together to save our priceless next generation from the ill impacts of alcohol and drug abuse.
“Together, let’s make sure that those that prioritize profit over the safety of our kids are not permitted to operate.
Set a good example for others by being responsible with alcohol yourself “said he.