Written By | BK Mugizi
According to the directive, bars and alcohol outlets that repeatedly defy lawful operating-hour requirements should be closed, while persistent offenders should face appropriate legal action.
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By Our Reporter
KAMPALA — The Ministry of Local Government has directed bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments across the country not to open before 3:00 p.m. on working days, in a bid to curb early-morning drinking and promote productivity.
The directive, issued on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, by the Minister of State for Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, also orders local authorities and security agencies to crack down on bar and shop owners who sell or supply alcohol to persons below the age of 18.
The minister directed all LC5 chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors and council speakers to take personal responsibility for enforcing the measures in their respective jurisdictions.
According to the directive, bars and alcohol outlets that repeatedly defy lawful operating-hour requirements should be closed, while persistent offenders should face appropriate legal action.
The ministry said the measures are intended to address idleness, family problems and rising crime associated with excessive alcohol consumption, while promoting a productive and responsible population.
Crackdown on Underage Drinking
The ministry directed local authorities and security agencies to arrest and prosecute bar owners, shop owners and operators of Malwa joints who sell or supply alcohol to persons under the age of 18.
Establishments found repeatedly violating the requirement should face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law.
Betting Hours to Be Regulated
Local governments were also directed to regulate the operating hours of betting companies within their jurisdictions in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
The ministry said the measure would help protect communities, particularly young people, from harmful practices associated with excessive betting.
Media Access to Council Meetings
In another measure aimed at promoting transparency, the ministry directed all local governments to allow members of the press access to council sittings.
The ministry said media access would enable citizens to follow debates, decisions and the conduct of public business in their respective local governments.
The councils were also directed to display their approved budgets on main council notice boards and other accessible public notice boards.
According to the directive, the move will enable residents to know what has been budgeted for their areas and follow up on the implementation of projects and delivery of services.
The ministry said the measure would promote people-led audits, transparency and accountability.
Joint security teams, council enforcement officers and other relevant authorities are expected to support local governments in implementing the directives.
Ateenyi urged local government leaders to take personal responsibility for ensuring compliance and report any challenges encountered during implementation through the appropriate channels.
“Let us put the interests of our people first, promote transparency and accountability in local government, protect our children, encourage productivity and restore discipline in our communities,” the minister said.
