Govt acts on youth alcohol abuse

DODOMA: THE government has taken action to curb rising alcohol abuse among youth, following findings by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) that show increased consumption of hard liquor, particularly among young people. Minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, said on Tuesday that the government is implementing measures in response to recommendations made …

DODOMA: THE government has taken action to curb rising alcohol abuse among youth, following findings by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) that show increased consumption of hard liquor, particularly among young people.

Minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, said on Tuesday that the government is implementing measures in response to recommendations made by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Industry, Trade, Agriculture and Livestock.

“The work is progressing well, but it is the responsibility of society to guide our youth and remind them that everything has its limits. Even when having fun, moderation is important. The community must take collective action in protecting our youth,” he said during a joint session with the committee in Dodoma.

The meeting brought together institutions under the ministry, including TBS, the Weights and Measures Agency (WMA), and the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), to deliberate on ways to improve regulation, consumer protection and revenue collection.

Dr Jafo reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to ensuring the production of high-quality products that protect consumers and contribute to national development.

On her part, Committee Vice Chairperson Ms Mariam Ditopile described the session as productive, noting that it offered members a better understanding of the systems used to monitor, verify, and certify products in the country.

“Members now better understand the systems used to identify and verify products made in the country, which will help enhance revenue collection,” said Ms Ditopile, who also serves as a Special Seats MP.

She urged TBS and WMA to step up enforcement and ensure that all imported goods meet national standards to safeguard public health and consumer rights.