Social development wants tighter controls to deal with underage drinking

The Social Development Department says tighter controls are needed to address the crisis of underage drinking and a lack of parental oversight.

The call follows outrage and shock expressed by South Africans over a video shared online showing children drinking alcohol in the presence of adults on Christmas Day in Nqamakwe, Eastern Cape.

Police have opened a criminal case after the footage went viral last week.

The department's Sandy Godlwana says a multidisciplinary approach is needed to address the issue.

“Over and above that, we need to also participate in community engagement sessions. The department should rather, you know, partner even with traditional leaders. As and when they go and engage communities, we should find a platform. I was also looking at a number of government departments reaching out to members of the public. Nothing stops us from actually working together with other government departments.” Godlwana said.

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