22/12/2025
SAAPA-Zambia Media Briefing
Comments on this are invited.
Date: 22 December 2025
Venue: Mwiluzi Lodge
Time: 09:00 - 09:30 hrs
Members of the Press, SAAPA-Zambia members,
Welcome to this media briefing. As you know, Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance's vision is a Healthy Zambia - Empowered Communities.
My briefing focuses on two key areas:-
1. Current issues of alcohol in our city
2. Call to accelerate Implementation of National Alcohol Policy (NAP) and Enforcement of Liquor Licensing Act (LLA)
The increasing abuse, availability, and open consumption of alcohol, particularly illicit alcohol, in the Central Business District is a growing public nuisance and looming public health disaster. Illicit alcohol poses serious health risks, including poisoning, organ damage, and mental health disorders.
As SAAPA-Zambia, we're concerned that inaction will allow this problem to take root. Enforcement is necessary, but viable alternatives for kachasu producers and livelihood diversification are crucial.
National Alcohol Policy and Liquor Licensing Act
We call for accelerated implementation of NAP and effective enforcement of existing regulations. Key recommendations include:
1. Implementation of an alcohol levy as a financing mechanism
2. Sustainable financing for addressing alcohol harms
3. Strong regulation of availability, accessibility, and marketing
4. Well-regulated licensed premises to support road safety and public health
With Zambia's improved fiscal space, investing in NAP implementation is timely and necessary.
I express gratitude and hand over leadership to our new SAAPA-Zambia President, Pastor Lonicah Ngambi. Let's support her leadership.
Thank you.
