THE Eastern Cape Liquor Board (ECLB) and Bashe Traditional Authority, under the leadership of Senior Chief Xhanti Sigcau, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize a partnership aimed at tackling alcohol abuse, non-compliance with liquor trading conditions, and illegal trading, which remain grave challenges in the community.
The MoU was signed during a community outreach programme conducted in Mbhashe Local Municipality at Nywarha Village last week.
The Bashe Traditional Council is experiencing rising cases of alcohol abuse and non-compliance by liquor traders, but Gcaleka Chief Xhanti Bambilizwe Sicgcau said he is hopeful that with this partnership, they can combat the high levels of alcohol abuse in this area.
“Following a series of engagement sessions between ECLB and Bashe Traditional Council, the two entities agreed to enter into a formal partnership to collaboratively drive alcohol harm reduction initiatives and promote compliance within the Traditional Authority.
“A decision has subsequently been taken to officially launch this significant partnership through community engagement sessions and the signing of the memorandum,” he said.
As part of the community engagement session, hundreds of community members from six villages gathered at the Nywarha Sport Field to witness the signing of the MoU, led by Chief Xhanti Sigcau, Eastern Cape Liquor Board CEO and Board Chairperson Dr. Nombuyiselo Makala, and Mbhashe Local Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Janda.
Sigcau said alcohol is not a problem; the problem is the abuse of alcohol.
“We also appeal to our local liquor traders to comply with and respect trading hours, and apply for liquor licenses.”
He said they are also exploring other ways and means of keeping the youth busy, like sports, agriculture, and farming.
