ParadigmFM News | Wednesday 12, 2026
Kagadi
Alcohol consumers and bar owners in Kagadi Town Council, Kagadi district have expressed concern over the government directive restricting bars, malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments from opening before 3 p.m. on working days.
The directive, contained in a letter dated August 10, 2026, and addressed to district, sub-county and town council chairpersons, calls on local leaders and security agencies to strictly regulate the sale and consumption of alcohol.
It prohibits the sale of alcohol to people below the age of 18 and requires alcohol-selling establishments to remain closed until 3 p.m. on working days, allowing people time to engage in productive activities before drinking.
However, the directive has sparked resistance among some drinkers and bar owners in Kagadi Town, who argued that restricting operating hours could affect their livelihoods.
During a visit to some of the town’s popular drinking spots, several people were found consuming alcohol as early as 9 a.m., despite the new directive.
Some alcohol consumers also argued that drinking before work gives them the energy and mood to carry out their daily activities.
They have warned that the directive could psychologically affect people who are accustomed to drinking in the morning.
Meanwhile, bar owners have asked Minister Balaam to reconsider the restricted operating hours, warning that the directive could cause them significant financial losses.
They said many operate small businesses using borrowed money and depend on early sales to repay their lenders.
Despite their criticism, the bar owners said they are ready to comply with the government directive and have urged their customers to use the morning hours productively.
