LJS: Govt’s will to fight alcohol abuse vital

By ALISON ANIS
ADDRESSING alcohol abuse successfully in communities requires strong show of commitment and willingness from the government and not just a joint effort through partnership, Zachary Sitban, from the community engagement unit with the Law and Justice Sector (LJS), said.
Sitban was telling reporters the purpose of the regional workshop on alcohol abuse to be held in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands, on Thursday and Friday.
He said the last symposium stressed public private partnership (PPP) in addressing alcohol abuse and the problems associated with it but even PPP could not work if the government was unwilling to commit and participate fully in the process.
Sitban said: “The government is focused on addressing the problem and its underlying causes as part of its commitment towards achieving Vision 2050.
“It is aware that alcohol abuse is one of the issues that is affecting families, communities and the nation and an impediment to development progress.
“It has made the right decision by initiating first step through the national symposium to address that and invite key partners, stakeholders from public and private sector including non-governmental organisations and churches to participate.
“However, the government has to be committed and participate meaningfully if we are to implement the alcohol policy successfully,” Sitban said. 
LJS director Joe Kanekane said his organisation was committed to ensuring that consultations were done both at the national and regional levels to get a wider view and recommendations on how to address the problem.
“Alcohol abuse and its consequences occur  everyday at bus stops, in our streets and markets.
“Unlike HIV/AIDS, everyone becomes a victim in one way or another,” Kanekane said.