Pic : MER Chief Executive Officer, Vusi Mtsweni.
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
As thousands of Mpumalanga’s Grade 12 learners lock in for the most consequential weeks of their schooling, an unexpected plea is going out to the heart of the province’s nightlife: turn down the volume so our children can tune into their future.
The MER (Mpumalanga Economic Regulator) is calling on tavern owners, liquor traders, and entertainment venue managers to put their communities first as the Class of 2026 prepares to write the National Senior Certificate final examinations.
For many matriculants, the coming weeks are the culmination of twelve years of early mornings, late nights, and sacrifices. Yet, for those living near bustling local spots, studying at night often means competing against booming basslines and late-night crowds.
The regulator is making it clear that this isn’t about shutting down local businesses, it’s about shared responsibility.
“Our matriculants have worked hard throughout the year and now need the support of all of us. We appeal to liquor traders to exercise great care and consideration during the examination period. A successful business is not only one that trades responsibly, but one that understands that it is part of a community and has a responsibility towards the people living around it,” says MER Chief Executive Officer, Vusi Mtsweni.
Mtsweni emphasises that true business success isn’t measured solely by profit, but by how a venue treats the people living right next door.
He says a successful business is not only one that trades responsibly, but one that understands that it is part of a community and has a responsibility towards the people living around it.
The MER is encouraging liquor licenses and staff across Mpumalanga to adopt simple, practical steps throughout the examination season which includes to;
• Manage music and entertainment responsibly, particularly during evening and night-time hours;
• Avoid excessive noise that may disturb nearby residents and learners;
• Be considerate of residential communities surrounding their establishments;
• Exercise greater vigilance and responsible management during the examination period;
• Engage constructively with neighbours and communities where concerns arise; and Continue operating in accordance with applicable legislation, license conditions and other regulatory requirements.
While the MER hopes the exam season serves as an opportunity for venue owners to demonstrate good neighborliness, they remind the public that noise control remains enforceable. Residents experiencing persistent noise disturbances are encouraged to lodge complaints with their local municipality, which enforces municipal noise by-laws.
Ultimately, the regulator hopes that a collective spirit of support will give Mpumalanga’s youth the quiet, supportive environment they need to succeed.
“We are not asking liquor traders to stop doing business. We are asking them to trade responsibly and to exercise greater caution during this important period. Lowering excessive noise, managing entertainment responsibly and being considerate of neighbors can make a meaningful difference to a learner who needs to study or rest. Let us give our matriculants the space and peace they need to succeed,” says Mtsweni.
