Zimbabwe is facing a growing health crisis due to high alcohol consumption rates, with health advocate Jacob Ngwenya raising concerns about its far-reaching consequences.
Speaking on the issue, Ngwenya called for the introduction of warning labels on all alcoholic products and stricter laws, including the implementation of a corrective tax on alcohol, to curb its consumption and fund the treatment of alcohol-related diseases.
Ngwenya highlighted research linking alcohol to seven types of cancers, emphasizing the need for urgent action.
“We need to ensure every alcoholic product has warning labels and consider a corrective tax to not only reduce consumption but also generate revenue to address chronic diseases,” he said.
He also criticized the ease of access to illicit and dangerous brews like Rimbaka, which further endanger public health. Ngwenya warned that the current trend is building a future burdened by chronic diseases such as cancer, a situation worsened by the lack of functional radiation therapy equipment in the country.
With only 10% of Zimbabwe’s population covered by medical insurance, Ngwenya stressed the importance of tackling alcohol abuse comprehensively, from raising awareness to promoting responsible drinking. “We are creating a sick future, not a healthier one,” he said, urging authorities to act swiftly to safeguard public health.
