Online Reporter
Peter Matika, [email protected]
GOVERNMENT has intensified efforts to reform Zimbabwe’s liquor licensing system, with stakeholders and key industry players from Bulawayo and Matabeleland provinces converging for consultations aimed at creating a more efficient, affordable and transparent regulatory framework.
The engagement, held yesterday as part of a nationwide review process, focused on reducing liquor licence fees, streamlining application procedures, improving compliance within the sector and addressing the growing challenge posed by illicit alcoholic substances.
The consultations brought together liquor traders, hospitality operators, local authorities and Government representatives who underscored the need for a licensing regime that promotes ease of doing business while strengthening governance and accountability within the industry.
Speaking during the discussions, Ministry of Local Government and Public Works official Mr Jusa Zakaria said Government was committed to ensuring that the liquor licensing system supports economic growth while maintaining public safety and order.
He said the ongoing review seeks to eliminate bottlenecks that have historically made it difficult and costly for operators to obtain licences.
“The thrust of these reforms is to create a licensing framework that is efficient, accessible and affordable. We want to encourage compliance by making it easier for operators to obtain licences while ensuring that regulatory standards are upheld,” said Mr Zakaria.
He said one of the key proposals under consideration is the decentralisation of the liquor licensing system, which will bring services closer to communities and businesses.
Under the proposed arrangement, information centres will be established to provide guidance and support to applicants, reducing the need for operators to travel long distances to access licensing services.
“The decentralisation of the system is expected to improve service delivery and accessibility. Information centres will play a critical role in assisting applicants with information on requirements and procedures, thereby improving compliance levels,” he said.
Mr Zakaria said Government is also reviewing liquor licence fees and penalties, with stakeholders widely calling for costs to be reduced to encourage more businesses to operate within the law.
“There has been strong input from industry players regarding the affordability of licences. The objective is to ensure that licensing fees are reasonable and do not become a barrier to compliance. Equally important is the review of penalties so that they are fair, practical and proportionate,” he said.
Mr Zakaria said ensuring that all liquor outlets are properly licensed remains a key priority, adding that a well-regulated sector benefits both operators and consumers.
“Licensing is not merely a regulatory requirement; it is an important governance tool. We want every liquor outlet to be licensed and also operate within the confines of the law. This improves accountability and protects legitimate businesses,” said Mr Zakaria.
The issue of illicit alcoholic substances dominated part of the discussions, with stakeholders expressing concern over the increasing availability of unregulated alcohol products that pose serious health and safety risks to consumers.
Businessman and hospitality operator Mr Emmanuel Mahaso of Nexus Rooftop strongly condemned the proliferation of illicit alcohol and drug abuse, describing the trend as a threat to communities and legitimate businesses.
“We must collectively condemn the use and abuse of drugs and illicit alcohol. These substances are destroying lives, undermining families and creating unfair competition for law-abiding operators who invest heavily to comply with regulations,” said Mr Mahaso.
He welcomed Government’s efforts to review the licensing framework, saying reforms should encourage compliance while simultaneously cracking down on illegal operators.
“Making licences affordable and accessible is a positive step because it encourages businesses to formalise their operations. At the same time, there must be firm action against those who continue to operate outside the law and sell dangerous illicit products,” he said.
Stakeholders also highlighted the importance of public awareness campaigns to educate operators and consumers on the dangers associated with illicit alcohol and the benefits of operating within a regulated environment.
Participants agreed that a modernised licensing framework would contribute significantly to improving governance in the liquor industry while supporting investment and job creation in the hospitality and retail sectors.
The consultations form part of Government’s broader drive to improve the ease of doing business by reducing administrative hurdles, enhance service delivery and create a more conducive operating environment for enterprises.
Industry players expressed optimism that the proposed reforms would result in a more inclusive and efficient licensing system that balances regulatory oversight with business growth, while safeguarding public health and ensuring responsible alcohol trade practices.
Once finalised, the reforms are expected to usher in a new era for Zimbabwe’s liquor industry, characterised by greater compliance, improved governance, decentralised service delivery and a stronger crackdown on illicit alcohol and substance abuse.
