Zambia: The Lusaka City Council PR Manager, Chola Mwamba urged bars, nightclubs and casino owners not to allow underage patrons in their premises. The directive has come keeping in mind the safety and security of the young teenagers in the country.
The age of drinking in Zambia is 18 years and any youngsters who fall under that age criteria are legally not allowed to consume alcoholic products. However, youngsters in the country do not comply with the said directive.
The authorities believe that it is their responsibility to prevent youngsters to refrain from underage drinking.
LCC Assistant Public Relations Manager Chola Mwamba talked about the issue in detail. He shared that some businesses are encouraging these trends. LCC Assistant Public Relations Manager noted that some bars, nightclubs and casino owners have been allowing underage patrons.
This practice aims to maximise their returns on special days such as Valentine’s Day and other public holidays. Mwamba said that it is illegal to admit, sell or deliver intoxicating substances to underage patrons regardless of the occasion.
“Furthermore, all drinking premises must adhere to the guidelines provided under the Public Health Act, Food Safety Act and the Liquor Licensing Act and meet all the standards required for them to conduct their businesses”, she said.
The regulations are being put in place for the benefit of the community, whether they are youngsters or adults. Underage drinking can form out of peer pressure or adventurous spirits and evolve Into lifelong issues, such as alcoholism.
Chola further notes that bars, nightclubs and casino proprietors are expected to follow the guidelines outlined by LCC. She called on them not to admit underage patrons.
She adds that if anyone is found abrogating the law, the council will not hesitate to take stern action.
Mwamba also adds that overcrowding in bars, nightclubs and casinos has the potential to compromise hygiene and sanitary conditions and create a further spread of cholera and other diseases.
She revealed that the local authority will not relent in ensuring that members of the public are safeguarded from diseases in public areas.