Liquor outlets across Sedibeng are expected to face increased compliance monitoring ahead of the festive season as Gauteng strengthens its efforts to clamp down on illegal alcohol trading and underage drinking.
The Gauteng government is training 80 provincial traffic wardens to serve as liquor inspectors under the Gauteng Liquor Board, expanding the province’s capacity to monitor establishments and enforce liquor legislation.
The initiative, launched by the Gauteng Department of Economic Development through the Gauteng Liquor Board, in partnership with the Department of Community Safety, forms part of the province’s festive season readiness campaign.
Head of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, Motlatjo Moholwa, delivered the keynote address during the programme’s launch, highlighting the importance of cooperation between government, law enforcement agencies, municipalities, communities and industry stakeholders.
The programme seeks to address underage drinking, illegal liquor trading and alcohol-related crime and violence, while ensuring that licensed establishments comply with the conditions of their licences.
The newly designated inspectors have already participated in practical training sessions aimed at equipping them with the skills needed to conduct compliance inspections and support the enforcement of liquor regulations.
Once deployed, the 80 wardens will operate across Gauteng’s five development corridors, including Sedibeng, where their presence is expected to strengthen oversight of liquor establishments.
The initiative comes as the province prepares for increased social activity during the festive season, a period when authorities seek to strengthen enforcement against irresponsible liquor trading and related offences.
For communities across Sedibeng, the increased inspection capacity could mean closer monitoring of liquor outlets, particularly those suspected of operating without valid licences or selling alcohol to underage customers.
Authorities have emphasised that the programme is intended to promote responsible liquor trading while protecting communities from the consequences of non-compliance.
