Lesotho Launches Enforcement of Liquor Consumption Legal Frameworks Campaign

On December 11, 2025, the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture held a meeting at the Manthabiseng Conference Hall to officially launch the Enforcement of Liquor Consumption Legal Frameworks campaign. The initiative, led by Minister Hon. Motlatsi Maqelepo, aims to prevent the misuse of liquor in unauthorized areas, reduce social harm, and strengthen compliance with the law.

Minister Maqelepo outlined a multi-faceted approach for the campaign, including public education on liquor-related crimes, behavior change programs targeting youth, community discussions, advertisements, online messaging, enhanced law enforcement, and systematic monitoring of liquor vendors. He emphasized the importance of supporting youth entertainment during the Christmas period to provide alternatives to alcohol consumption. Arts and cultural events, combined with educational programs promoting social responsibility, will be central to this effort.

The Minister also highlighted that the campaign will rely on two key legal instruments: the Liquor Licensing Act and the Public Health Order. These laws will guide enforcement actions and help regulate legal liquor consumption in Lesotho.

Ms. Mabolaoana Selinyana, representing the Ministry, stressed that employing children under 18 in the liquor industry is a criminal offence. She also noted that selling alcohol to individuals who are already visibly intoxicated is illegal. Selinyana clarified that in all entertainment venues, alcohol consumption must occur on-site, except for “off-sales” premises where customers purchase liquor to take away.

Superintendent Thooma Mphaphathi, speaking on behalf of the Lesotho Police, emphasized that liquor misuse contributes to crime and road accidents. He urged the public to consume alcohol responsibly in authorized locations and appealed to vendors to avoid selling alcohol to minors and heavily intoxicated individuals, warning that such practices threaten the future of the Basotho community.

The campaign reflects a comprehensive effort by the government to regulate alcohol consumption, promote public safety, and foster responsible social behavior among citizens, particularly the youth, during the festive season.