The Mbabane municipality has launched a crackdown on unlicensed liquor outlets in residential areas, with 41 outlets identified as non-conforming. According to Fakudze, the municipality's Public Health and compliance teams have been conducting inspections and health certification to ensure that liquor outlets comply with health and licensing requirements. The municipality is guided by the Liquor Licensing Act, 2023, which regulates liquor trading. Fakudze stated that the municipality follows the town planning scheme as a guide for land use to ensure proper zoning and compliance.
A total of 103 licensed liquor outlets are located across the city, with 41 outlets in commercial areas and 41 in residential areas. Thirteen outlets are in industrial areas, while three outlets are in public facilities. Three outlets are under suspended services, and two outlets are in open spaces. Fakudze said that the 41 outlets in residential areas are regarded as non-conforming, citing Section 4(1) of the Liquor Licensing Act, 2023, which states that a person shall only conduct a liquor business in an area designated and approved by the local authority.
The municipality has received complaints from residents regarding non-compliance issues, including noise nuisance from loud music, public urination, littering, drinking in public, blockage of access roads and residents' properties, and disruptive patron behavior posing safety risks to children. Fakudze stated that complaints in writing received from not less than ten adult persons who are resident within a distance of one kilometer from a licensed premises situated in the local authority area may be lodged with the Secretary of the Board.
The municipality is working closely with the Liquor Licensing Board and relevant stakeholders to address non-conforming outlets and strengthen enforcement. Fakudze mentioned that the municipality continues to monitor compliance issues and conduct inspections to ensure that liquor outlets comply with health and licensing requirements. The municipality aims to improve service delivery, promote social development, and ensure orderly and compliant business operations within the city.
According to Fakudze, Section 17(1) of the Liquor Licensing Act provides for complaints by residents. The municipality takes complaints seriously and takes action against non-compliant outlets. Fakudze stated that the municipality remains committed to addressing non-conforming outlets and strengthening enforcement.
The crackdown on unlicensed liquor outlets in residential areas is part of the municipality's efforts to promote a safe and healthy environment for residents. Fakudze emphasized that the municipality will continue to work with stakeholders to address non-compliance issues and ensure that liquor outlets operate in accordance with the law.
The municipality's efforts to regulate liquor trading and enforce compliance have been welcomed by residents. The municipality's commitment to improving service delivery and promoting social development is expected to have a positive impact on the community.
Key points
- The municipality has identified 41 unlicensed liquor outlets in residential areas.
- The municipality is guided by the Liquor Licensing Act, 2023, which regulates liquor trading.
- The municipality is working closely with the Liquor Licensing Board and relevant stakeholders to address non-conforming outlets and strengthen enforcement.
