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LIQUOR OUTLETS NEXT TO SCHOOLS FACE CLOSURE

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MBABANE – The Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, has revealed that the Ministry of Education and Training has formally raised concerns about liquor outlets located near schools.

He encouraged residents to report these businesses for action to be taken against them. He cited a business at Kwaluseni, which is being evacuated, following complaints from nearby institutions and residents. Khumalo was speaking after a meet-and-greet session with the Liquor Licensing Board yesterday morning in the Ministry’s boardroom.

This comes after the successful passage of the Liquor Licences Act No. 27 of 2023 into law. Khumalo stated that his ministry is taking decisive measures to ensure that liquor businesses across the country operate in full compliance with the amended legislation.

“This measure is being implemented to protect consumers and citizens and to promote a fair and competitive business environment. The ministry remains committed to ensuring that all businesses operate within the legal framework, while protecting citizens,” he said. He added that the ministry’s immediate focus will be on ensuring compliance with the law regarding liquor outlets located near educational institutions.

“To this end, we announce that the liquor business opposite the University of Eswatini, Kwaluseni Campus, will not have its licence renewed after receiving complaints from concerned citizens associated with the university,” he said.
Khumalo encouraged the public to continue reporting businesses that fail to comply with the terms of their licences and the law, particularly those near institutions of learning.

He assured the public that all complaints would be handled with confidentiality, urgency and decisiveness. As per the law, a valid complaint must be signed by ten or more adults within a one-kilometre radius of the establishment. After thorough investigations, if the allegations are substantiated, action to close the establishment will be taken.
“Local authorities (municipalities) and traditional authorities (chiefs) also have the right to object to the renewal of licences for such businesses,” he added.

He emphasised that his ministry fully supports the Liquor Licensing Board in executing its duties and clarified that the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade is not seeking to eliminate the liquor business, as it has supported many families who rely on its profits for essentials like food and electricity.

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