IN CONVERSATION WITH Zanele Sabela, National Spokesperson for the Congress of South African Trade Unions

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has expressed its support for the tabling of the Liquor Amendment Bill in Parliament, highlighting the urgent need to address the widespread issue of alcohol abuse in South Africa. The federation emphasises that alcohol-related harm disproportionately affects working-class and rural communities, contributing to significant social and economic challenges. Matthew Parks, COSATU's Parliamentary Coordinator, pointed out that approximately 40% of the nation's annual road fatalities are linked to alcohol consumption, underscoring the severity of the public health crisis.