Discussions to reopen bars should start – Kyambadde

Trade Minister Amelia Kyambadde. PHOTO | FILE

What you need to know:

  • Bars and night clubs, which form the biggest market for breweries and beverage companies have been closed since March last year, impacting close to 1.3 million jobs in the industry.

Trade Minister Amelia Kyambadde has said government will seek to find a balance that is likely to inform the reopening of bars.

Speaking during the launch of the ‘Raising the Bar’ campaign in Kampala recently, Ms Kyambadde said government was aware of the adverse impact that closing of bars has had on livelihoods and government revenue, noting that whereas the safety of Ugandans is the top priority, the conversation to reopen bars must begin.

“Our number one priority has been the health and safety of Ugandans. So far government is doing a commendable job. This gives us optimism that the conversation on bar reopening should start happening with the relevant stakeholders,” she said.

Bars and night clubs, which form the biggest market for breweries and beverage companies have been closed since March last year, impacting close to 1.3 million jobs in the industry.
Several stakeholders have called on government to look into the matter.

 However, there has been little optimism as government continues to say little about a possible reopening.
Therefore, Ms Kyambadde’s call brings new optimism in an industry that had been hugely decimated by Covid-19 disruptions.

She was speaking launch of the ‘Raising the Bar’ campaign in which Uganda Breweries committed about Shs3.6b to raise awareness and a safe environment that will facilitate the re-opening of bars.

Mr Alvin Mbugua, the Uganda Breweries managing director, said the money will support bar owners whose businesses have been affected by Covid-19 while putting in place facilities that will safeguard customers against Covid-19.

“The money will be used to drive awareness as well develop facilities and enhance hygiene measures across the country that are important in the prevention of Covid-19 transmission,” Mr Mbugua said.