Kampala, Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Alcohol Industry association launched

Ugandan alcohol beverages producers have underscored their joint determination to counter and reduce the abuse of their products, by launching an umbrella organization to co-ordinate their efforts.

Uganda Alcohol Industry Association (UAIA), registered in August this year, was launched in a ceremony at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, primarily to promote responsible drinking.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Stephen Malinga, who officiated the launch, thanked the alcohol manufacturers for being responsible citizens by embracing self-regulation of the consumption of their products.

The alcohol producers conceived UAIA out of their belief that a healthy liquor industry is dependant on a healthy society. Members appreciated that while their products are a major socialization vehicle and contribute substantially to national revenue, when used irresponsibly or out rightly abused they can be harmful.

While UAIA has little influence over individuals who are prone to antisocial behavior, it will make substantial contribution to the development of responsible norms in society. The association will do this through sound education programmes that help the average consumers to make decisions when consuming alcohol.

To this end, in addition to its own programmes such as upcoming promotion of responsible drinking over the festive season; UAIA will support other stakeholders such as Ministry of Health, the Police and anti-alcohol abuse NGOs.

Membership of the association is fast expanding, with the key players, such as Uganda Breweries, Nile Breweries, Scoul, Premier Distillers, MBS Fruit Agencies and GT General Producers, having signed up.

EABL Uganda's Head of Corporate Relations, Marion Muyobo shares a light moment with Uganda's Minister for Health, Dr. Stephen Malinga during the launch of the Uganda Alcohol Industry Association held at the Sheraton Hotel.

The UAIA has a management committee currently chaired by Uganda Breweries Limited, with Nile Breweries Ltd as vice chair and Premier Distilleries as Treasurer. Members pay fees that are used for running the association.

The association will in due course set up an office with full time staff, as it seeks to scale up awareness of responsible drinking among Ugandans.