During a panel discussion at the launch of the Multisectoral Non-Communicable Diseases and Injuries Coordinating Mechanism, Ms. Mphonyane Mofokeng, the Executive Director of the Anti-Drug Abuse Association of Lesotho (ADAAL), highlighted the urgent need for stricter alcohol usage and trade regulations.

 Mofokeng noted that, alcohol is a primary cause of road accidents and a leading contributor to many Non Communicable Diseases and injuries.

She emphasized that, civil society organizations alone, cannot curb alcohol abuse, particularly among underage children, due to a lack of resources. She urged for enhanced collaboration with the government to be more effective. She also recommended that the government prioritize prevention over treatment and partner with public and civil institutions to promote behavioural change.

Ms. Bohlokoa Rametse from the Ministry of Sports, Tourism, and Culture supported the call for policy changes. She suggested that, Lesotho needs to either create new policies or amend existing ones, specifically those regulating alcohol. Rametse recommended a reduction in the legal hours for public bars to operate. She also stated that, the legal drinking age needs to be lowered. In response, the Minister of Health Selibe Mochoboroane acknowledged the recommendations, agreeing that, a collaborative effort among the government, local authorities, educators, and civil organizations, is essential to decrease the current statistics of alcohol-related road accidents which in turn cause Non Communicable Diseases and injuries