Raising awareness among South Africa’s youth is key to help tackle the prevalence of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which is linked to underage drinking.
The Beer Association of SA (BASA) runs a packed schedule of events at schools throughout the year to alert young people to the consequences of alcohol abuse, especially during pregnancy. One of the important messages the association is trying to drive home is that “no amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy”.
Some of the initiatives BASA has led this year include a uniform handover at Zenzeleni Primary School in Alexander and a sanitary drive at Aurora Girls High School in rural Gauteng. It hosted the Siyaphakama Multisport Tournament in Gqeberha in August, involving about eight different schools teams, to promote health and fitness. Other upcoming events include a Responsible Drinking school drive in Mpumalanga and Tshwane. At these events, BASA drives home messages about underage drinking and FASD. It also supplies a Pledge Board, where learners can pledge not to take part in underage drinking.
BASA partners with regulatory authorities such as the JMPD, Department of Education, National Liquor Traders and other key stakeholders to achieve their goals. They are open to collaborate with additional organisations that share their vision.
BASA CEO Charlene Louw says high levels of underage drinking and FASD in South Africa reflect a combination of factors, including socio-economic deprivation, hopelessness and ignorance.
“This is a tragedy, not only for the young people and their babies but for the country as a whole. South Africa’s economy cannot afford to support victims of FASD who are unable to lead fulfilling lives. We have to drive home how important it is that people under 18 do not drink at all, and that people over 18 should only drink responsibly.”
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