Alcohol industry asks government to reconsider 3pm bar opening directive

What the report says

The Uganda Alcohol Industry Association (UAIA) has urged the government to revisit a new directive that bars, malwa joints and other alcohol outlets should not open before 3 p.m. on working days. In a statement reported by Sqoop Uganda, the association said it supports government goals such as protecting minors, improving discipline and promoting productivity, but argued that the current approach could place licensed businesses at a disadvantage.

The request follows instructions from Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara, who said the restriction would be enforced against outlets that open early and that repeat violations could lead to closure. UAIA chairperson Emmanuel Njuki said the industry agrees with stronger action against alcohol sales to children, but questioned whether a blanket opening-time rule is a lawful and effective tool.

According to the association, the measure could push daytime demand toward cheaper, unregulated alcohol rather than reducing consumption overall. UAIA also warned that the rule could affect tax revenue, jobs, hospitality and tourism if compliant businesses lose customers while informal sellers remain in operation.

Instead of a universal 3 p.m. opening time, the association wants government to focus on illicit alcohol sales and work with industry on age checks, traceability, responsible drinking campaigns and public education. The statement was issued in the context of wider ministry directives announced on August 10, 2026.