Call to introduce sin tax on alcohol

A local organisation has said that there is need to protect young people against alcohol abuse through measures that include increasing taxes on intoxicating beverages.

Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance -Zimbabwe Country Coordinator Mr Tungamirai Zimonte

“Alcohol use among young people in Zimbabwe is of growing concern. We need to work together to address the root causes of harmful alcohol use and create safer harmful alcohol use and create a safer environment for youths,” said Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance -Zimbabwe Country Coordinator Mr Tungamirai Zimonte in a statement to mark Alcohol Awareness Month.

The awareness campaign is carried out in April each year.

Health Minister Rtd General Constantino Chiwenga has previously advocated for the introduction of a sin tax on alcohol to finance health delivery systems.

Zimbabwe is battling an increase in non-communicable diseases and rising numbers of young people are being affected by diseases like hypertension and cancer.

“Government and other stakeholders need to implement evidence-based policies such as increasing taxes on alcohol, restricting alcohol advertising and sponsorship and regulating the sale and availability of alcohol,” said Zimonte.

alcohol.org placed Zimbabwe on number 7 on the list of the African countries with the highest alcohol consumption rates.

File pic of alcoholic beverages among other items confiscated by the police after a raid on a teen party

Gathering like vuzu parties and house parties where young people consume alcohol excessively are a matter of public record after police have had to step in, in several cases.

SAAPA is a network of organizations working on promoting evidence-based alcohol policies across Southern Province, joined the world in commemorating Alcohol Awareness Month which was commemorated under the theme “Alcohol and Youth: Protecting Our Future”.

Substance abuse is a problem in Zimbabwe with over 5000 people arrested nationwide over the past few weeks for possession and dealing in drugs.