Uganda Bans Bars From Opening Before 3pm on Working Days
Government says the measure aims to curb early-morning drinking and related social problems
- Bars banned before 3pm
- Early drinking targeted
- Repeat offenders face closure
Uganda has directed bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments to remain closed until 3 p.m. on working days as part of a government crackdown on early-morning drinking.
The directive was issued by Minister of Local Government Balaam Barugahara on Tuesday, August 11, and requires local authorities to enforce restrictions on the operating hours of alcohol outlets.
The government says the measure is aimed at discouraging people from spending their mornings drinking instead of working and addressing social problems associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
These problems include idleness, family difficulties and rising crime in some communities, according to the minister.
Under the directive, bars, Malwa joints and other establishments selling alcohol must not open before 3 p.m. on working days. Enforcement, however, will remain subject to national laws, licensing requirements and lawful regulations issued by local authorities.
“Bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments should not open before 3:00 p.m. on working days,” the statement said.
The minister warned that operators who repeatedly violate lawful restrictions on operating hours could face closure.
He also instructed local authorities to take appropriate enforcement action against persistent offenders in accordance with the law.
Mr Barugahara further urged local leaders to work with security agencies and enforcement teams to discourage early-morning alcohol consumption and ensure that alcohol outlets do not operate in ways that encourage people to spend their mornings drinking instead of working.
