Alcohol Law Goes Into Effect in May

Apr 6 , 2019


[ssba-buttons]

The recent legislation that puts restrictions on the use, sale and advertisement of alcohol will become effective on May 29, 2019. The law limits the advertisement of drinks with alcoholic content less than 10pc to between the hours of 11:00pm and 6:00am on broadcast media and prohibits alcohol manufacturers from sponsoring holiday events or issuing lottery awards and prizes. The law, which has been in draft legislation for three years, puts various restrictions and limitations on advertisement as well as the sale and use of alcoholic and tobacco products. The regulations span from production and importation to distribution and promotion of these products. Prepared by the Ministry of Health and the Food & Drug Authority, the law sets a new regulatory framework for food, medicine, medical devices, cosmetics, alcoholic beverages and tobacco products. It also raises the drinking age from 18 to 21, which will make drinking alcohol for close to 5.5 million additional people illegal.


Radar

Ministry Showcases Arada Branch Revenue Gains

Arada District's Land Development & Administration Branch pulled in over 150 million Br in just 70 days, beating its 90-day target. Most of the revenue came from annual lease collections and service fees. The office also billed 126 property owners for roof and fence valuations, already securing 20 million Br of the expected 46 million Br. Officials issued warnings to 15 allottees slow to start construction and recommended land right revocations in 11 cases. Leaders credited a more efficient...


Radar

Ministry Backs Blended Finance for Micro, Small Enterprises

The United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is partnering with Ministry of Finance to expand financial access for micro and small enterprises through blended finance and digital tools. Off-balance-sheet facilities are designed to attract private investors and Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) by reducing risk and improving capital flow. Digital platforms, including mobile money and digital IDs, will lower transaction costs and broaden reach. The initiative supports job creation and...


Radar

National Electricity Network Set for Upgrade

Ethiopia Electric Utility (EEU) plans to expand the national electricity grid by 8,689 km in the 2026 fiscal year, Yohannes Tonja, head of Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, said. The rollout includes 86,789 km of medium-voltage lines, 92,572 km of low-voltage lines, and pre-maintenance on transformers. EEU will also rehabilitate 1,218 km of medium-voltage lines, install 1,893 transformers, and upgrade 308.7 km of low-voltage infrastructure. Operational targets include cutting power interrup...