Renewed calls for tighter regulation of taverns in residential areas after deadly Bronkhorstspruit shooting

The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (SAAPA) has warned that weak liquor laws and poor enforcement continue to cost lives across South Africa.

Their remarks follow the tragic shooting at a tavern in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit, which left five people dead and six injured.

This has prompted SAAPA to renew its appeal for stricter regulation of taverns in residential areas.

Secretary-General Aadielah Diedericks stated that alcohol is a mood-altering substance that promotes violence and crime, particularly where liquor outlets are heavily concentrated near residences.

She adds: "The key question here is why it is that we should have alcohol outlets situated in residential areas - that is at the heart of the issue. We don't have taverns or bars in the middle of Constantia or Sandton where people live. Why is it that in South Africa, we accept that our liquor licensing authority gives licenses to alcohol outlets in townships?"

Diedricks criticised the country’s outdated and inconsistent liquor laws, noting that some provincial regulations dateback to the 1980s.

She mentioned that many taverns are licensed without adequate community consultation, despite legal obligations for public input.

"We know from our own research that communities generally are not consulted in relation to alcohol licenses."

Fear of retaliation, she explained, often prevents residents in townships from objecting to new taverns, even when they are associated with increasing levels of harm and insecurity.

Calling for increased political commitment, Diedricks urged the government to implement evidence-based measures, such as limiting rading hours, to decrease alcohol-related trauma cases and policing expenses.

She also encouraged communities to partner with authorities to demand accountability, reduce corruption, and develop safer, alternative recreational spaces away from residential areas.

To listen to Aadielah Diedericks in conversation with Jacob Moshokoa on CapeTalk's Early Breakfast show, click on the audio below: