By Abubakarr Harding
In a significant move to underscore the critical role of alcohol consumption in Sub-Saharan Africa, a coalition of prominent Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) unveiled the findings of their 2023 Alcohol Report in a conference held in Ghana, West Africa.
The Citizen Rights Network Sierra Leone, a leading force among CSOs in Sierra Leone, took center stage during the presentation, highlighting an astounding 99.9% statistical emphasis.
At the conference, Ibrahim Bai Koroma, the Executive Director of Citizen Rights Network Sierra Leone, addressed the attendees with a comprehensive report detailing the organization’s pivotal role in compiling the survey data. He expounded on Sierra Leone’s distinctive approach to alcohol regulation, emphasizing that majority of alcohol-producing companies undergo rigorous monitoring, positioning them as exemplars in the Sub-Saharan African context. This rigorous oversight ensures adherence to best practices and guarantees the safety of the products for consumers.
Koroma shed light on the vigilant agencies within Sierra Leone responsible for conducting unannounced spot checks and regular inspections. Their proactive measures not only guarantee the safety of alcoholic beverages prior to entering the market but also foster a sanitized market environment that discourages underage drinking and binge consumption.
The Executive Director further illuminated Sierra Leone’s longstanding reputation for exporting exceptional, award-winning alcoholic beverages across Sub-Saharan Africa. The nation boasts record-breaking export volumes to countries within the region and beyond.
Addressing fellow CSOs, Koroma underscored the conference’s principal objective: to explore solutions for raising consumer awareness about alcohol abuse and dependency risks. He advocated for an approach centered on education and sensitization rather than outright condemnation.
Based on their surveys, Koroma highlighted a critical issue affecting consumers—the misconception that all alcoholic beverages are interchangeable. A staggering 80% of consumers are unaware of the varying contents among different beverages. He advised conference attendees to consider this insight seriously. Mixing distinct alcoholic beverages, he cautioned, can compromise the immune system. On the other hand, exclusively consuming a single brand minimizes potential harm. Koroma urged a robust media outreach and community sensitization campaign to drive effective results.
Elatedly, Koroma declared Sierra Leone’s adherence to internationally prescribed alcohol policy methods, positioning the nation among the 45 countries leading in this domain. This commitment, he asserted, has contributed to a notable reduction in death rates.
While lauding their achievements, Koroma encouraged fellow attendees to disseminate this vital message within their respective nations, emphasizing the importance of the right to life.
He extended an invitation to other Civil Society Organizations to engage in further research on alcohol-related issues, advocating for a proactive stance against dependency and abuse.
In closing, Bai Koroma expressed gratitude to the assembled representatives for providing the platform to present this year’s Alcoholic Beverages Report. He pledged to engage Sierra Leone’s alcoholic beverage companies upon his return, ensuring they remain updated on both successes and challenges encountered.
