KATAA Post

Alcohol policy timely

Plans by the government to adopt a new policy on the sale of alcohol with the aim of preventing teenage drinking is not only sound, but also timely.

Teenage drinking is blamed for cases of indiscipline in schools, crime, spread of sexually transmitted ailments including Aids, unplanned pregnancies, road accidents and death.

Families are also spending huge sums of money on the treatment of alcohol-related diseases.

A recent survey by Consumer Insight revealed that Kenyan youths spend a whopping Sh37 billion on alcohol a year.

The study indicates that on average, the youths spend Sh1,031 on beer and Sh714 on spirits in a month — most of it gotten from their parents in form of pocket money.

The survey is also a clear pointer to the breakdown of family values.

As reported elsewhere in this paper, the government intends to ensure only those above 21 years would be allowed into alcohol selling entertainment spots.

We expect noisy resistance by the youths, but advise them to look at the big picture: that of self-preservation.

No heroism can be derived from too much drinking. At below 21 years, most youngsters are expected to be in school. Their energies should be devoted to studies and other productive activities.

The government policy cannot replace the role of parents and guardians. It is the primary responsibility of parents to teach their children the dangers of alcohol abuse.

Source: Daily Nation 16/05/09

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