Caption: DEDT MEC, Makhosazane Masilela, ready to engage with the liquor industry to find solutions
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
A range of social and economic issues that impact the liquor industry as well as communities, will form part of the discussions during the historic Provincial Liquor Indaba to be hosted by the Department of Economic Development and Tourism(DEDT) in conjunction with the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator(MER), in eMalahleni Local Municipality on 25 & 26 September.
According to Mpumalanga DEDT, the Indaba will also be an important platform to formulate collaboration among key stakeholders in the liquor industry, such as policymakers, business owners, and community leaders.
DEDT MEC, Makhosazane Simelane, believes that the Indaba is a vital step in enhancing the engagement between government and the liquor industry, by bringing diverse voices together. She also encouraged all stakeholders to participate and contribute to the dialogue.
“ We aim to create a more sustainable and responsible liquor sector that not only supports economic growth but also prioritises the health and safety of our communities,” said MEC Masilela.
The MER Chief Executive Officer(CEO), Vusi Mtsweni, reaffirmed Masilela’s assertion that the Indaba represents an opportunity to tackle challenges and opportunities facing the Mpumalanga liquor industry.
“ By working together, we can ensure that the industry continues to thrive while adhering to the highest standards of responsibility and community engagement. We look forward to productive discussions and actionable outcomes from this event,” said Mtsweni.
MEC Masilela added that the promotion of responsible trading practices within the liquor retail sector remains a cornerstone of the policy agenda by DEDT.
“ Through the liquor indaba, we should be able to intensify efforts to enforce compliance with liquor license conditions,” Masilela said.
