KAMPALA — Bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments have been directed not to open before 3:00pm on working days as the Ministry of Local Government moves to tighten control of alcohol consumption across the country.
The directive was issued by Minister in Charge of Local Government Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi in a communication to LC5 chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors and council speakers dated August 11, 2026.
Under the new measures, local authorities are required to ensure that bars and other alcohol outlets comply with lawful operating hours, with establishments that repeatedly defy the directives facing closure and other enforcement action.
Balaam said the restrictions are intended to discourage early-morning drinking and promote a more productive population.
“Local leaders should take the lead in discouraging early-morning alcohol consumption and work with security agencies and enforcement teams to ensure that bars and alcohol outlets do not operate in a manner that encourages people to spend their mornings drinking instead of working,” he said.
The minister linked excessive alcohol consumption to idleness, family problems and rising crime in communities.
He also directed authorities to ensure that people below the age of 18 are not sold or supplied with alcohol.
Bar owners, shopkeepers, Malwa joint operators and other alcohol sellers found providing alcohol to minors should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law, he said.
Establishments that repeatedly violate the requirement should face appropriate sanctions.
Betting Also Targeted
The directive also targets betting operations, with local governments instructed to regulate the operating hours of betting companies within their jurisdictions in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
Balaam said the measure is aimed at protecting communities, particularly young people, from harmful practices associated with excessive betting.
Joint security teams, council enforcement officers and other relevant authorities are expected to support local governments in enforcing the directives.
The minister instructed local government leaders to take personal responsibility for implementation and report challenges through the appropriate channels.
Transparency in Local Government
The alcohol restrictions form part of a broader set of directives aimed at improving accountability and productivity in local governments.
Balaam directed councils to allow journalists access to council sittings, saying the public should be able to follow debates, decisions and the conduct of government business at the local level.
He also ordered local governments to display approved budgets on council notice boards and other accessible public notice boards.
The minister said this would allow residents to know what has been budgeted for their areas and follow up on the implementation of projects and services.
“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,” Balaam said.
The directive was copied to the Vice President, Prime Minister, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Cabinet ministers and Members of Parliament.
