The government has introduced new measures regulating the operating hours of bars, Malwa drinking places and other alcohol-selling businesses across the country in a bid to control early morning drinking.

Under the new directive issued by the Ministry of Local Government, bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol outlets will not be allowed to open before 3pm on working days.

The directive was issued by Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, who said the move is aimed at reducing excessive alcohol consumption and encouraging productivity among Ugandans.

According to the ministry, early morning drinking has contributed to social challenges, including idleness, family conflicts and increased crime in some communities.

The ministry warned alcohol sellers who repeatedly ignore lawful operating-hour restrictions that they risk closure and other enforcement actions.

The directive will be implemented alongside existing national laws, licensing requirements and local government regulations governing the sale and consumption of alcohol.

Local government leaders have been given the responsibility of ensuring that the new measures are followed in their respective areas.

LC5 chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors and council speakers have been tasked with taking a leading role in enforcing the directive.

The ministry has also instructed local leaders to work closely with security agencies and enforcement teams to monitor alcohol-selling businesses and discourage early morning drinking.

Authorities have been directed to take action against bar owners, shopkeepers and Malwa joint operators who sell or supply alcohol to people below the age of 18.

Such operators will face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law, according to the ministry.

The government said establishments that continue violating alcohol regulations will face sanctions, including possible closure.

In addition to regulating alcohol sales, the ministry has directed local governments to control the operating hours of betting companies in their areas.

The move is intended to protect communities, especially young people, from the negative effects associated with excessive betting.

Minister Barugahara said the government’s interventions are aimed at promoting responsible behaviour, protecting families and improving community welfare.

The ministry also issued additional directives aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in local governments.

All local councils have been instructed to allow journalists access to council meetings to enable citizens to follow discussions and decisions made by their leaders.

The minister said media access would help the public understand how local authorities operate and promote accountability, similar to proceedings in Parliament.

Local governments have also been ordered to display approved budgets on council notice boards and other public spaces.

The ministry said this will allow residents to know government priorities in their areas and monitor the implementation of projects and services.

Joint security teams, council enforcement officers and other relevant authorities will support local governments in implementing the new directives.

Minister Barugahara called on local leaders to put citizens’ interests first, protect children, promote discipline and encourage productive communities through proper enforcement of the new measures.