As South Africa observes Alcohol Awareness Month, the Justice and Peace Commission of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC)—in collaboration with the DG Murray Trust’s Rethink Your Drink campaign—has issued a renewed and urgent call for a fundamental shift in South Africa’s alcohol policy and culture.
The month of April provides a timely opportunity to reflect on South Africa’s harmful relationship with alcohol, characterized by high levels of binge drinking, poor regulation, and devastating social consequences. The SACBC Justice and Peace Commission and DGMT are advocating for a people-centred, ethical, and community-led approach to addressing alcohol-related harm, particularly in the country’s most vulnerable communities.

The Hidden Cost of Profit
Despite the industry’s claims of economic benefit, recent research shows that alcohol-related harms cost South Africa R210 billion annually, far outweighing any tax revenue or employment generated.
“Taverns have become central to our drinking culture,” said Kashifa Ancer, Campaign Manager for Rethink Your Drink. “But economic pressure cannot override social responsibility. Tavern owners must be part of the solution in reducing harm and protecting communities.”

The SACBC Justice and Peace Commission has taken a proactive stance by launching an alcohol awareness initiative at taverns, engaging owners and staff on responsible service, safety, and the broader ethical impact of harmful alcohol use. This project, already underway in several dioceses, aims to reduce alcohol-fueled violence and substance abuse while promoting values of dignity, accountability, and community healing.

A Crisis Among Youth
The Catholic Bishops of Botswana, Eswatini, and South Africa have consistently raised concerns about alcohol’s impact in the region, especially on the youth. In their August 2024 Plenary Statement, the SACBC warned:
“The abuse of alcohol, especially by young people, is a serious threat to their future. Many are trapped in substance abuse, leading to broken families, violent behaviour, and ruined lives. We call upon parents, communities, and government to take this matter seriously and act decisively.”

This concern was reiterated in the January 2025 Plenary, where the bishops emphasized:
“We cannot remain silent while so many of our youth are being destroyed by alcohol and drugs. The Church must speak out, advocate for stronger regulations, and offer programs of support and healing.”

Alcoholism concerning Gender Based Violence and road accidents

In an interview with the SACBC communication office, Bishop Thulani Victor Mbuyisa CMM, Chairperson of the Justice and Peace Commission, said, “Research has clearly shown a strong link between alcohol abuse and gender-based violence, as well as crime in general.”

He stressed that change is urgently needed — both on a personal and systemic level:
“More than ever, we need a change in behavior. But there’s also a need to review and reform our current laws. We must question the ease of access to alcohol, particularly in residential areas, where many alcohol outlets are found. The almost unrestricted access — even for underage youth — is a huge challenge in our country.”

According to the World Health Organization, South Africa sees over 62,000 alcohol-related deaths annually, particularly among low-income groups. Bishop Mbuyisa adds:
“We are called to a national examination of conscience. Alcohol is destroying lives—and in many cases, our silence and inaction are complicit.”

A Call to Action
This Alcohol Awareness Month, Rethink Your Drink and the SACBC Justice and Peace Commission jointly call for:
1. Strengthening the family unit as the foundation of society
2. Policy reform to reduce alcohol outlet density in residential areas
3. Stricter enforcement of trading hours, with community monitoring of non-compliant outlets
4. Greater investment in alcohol treatment and prevention, especially among the youth
5. Community participation in liquor licensing decisions
6. Strong measures to shut down illegal shebeens

Toward a Culture of Life
The SACBC’s voice, rooted in faith and justice, is echoing through communities across South Africa, calling for a national shift that puts health, dignity, and moral responsibility at the centre of alcohol regulation.
“This is not just a health issue—it is a justice issue,” said Bishop Mbuyisa. “We must build a culture that honours life over profit and protects the vulnerable over economic interests. The time for action is now.”