‘Alcohol-fuelled recklessness a major concern’

Since the lifting of the ban on the sale of alcohol on 1 June, South Africans surveyed have expressed concern about the increase in reckless behaviour, research by Ask Afrika has shown.

The biggest concern facing the country remains the fear of contracting Covid-19 (22% of those surveyed said).

As the economy reopens, economic opportunities resurface and the prospect of unemployment and a loss of income decreases, thereby bringing some hope to a few respondents.

Concerns about food shortages remain the second biggest concern among respondents.

The ongoing crisis cycle has become a significant threat in the fabric of society – boosting awareness and focus on new hygiene standards.

Amid all of this, reports have indicated there has been a significant increase in crime and violence against women and children, which has been prioritised and has been stamped with a sense of urgency by the Presidency.

Data suggests this social issue has strong ties to alcohol consumption. At the same time, reckless behaviour is assumed to lead to an increased spread of the virus.

Ask Africa has been conducting weekly research since the beginning of the coronavirus lockdown on 26 March. The main aim of the research is to understand the socioeconomic impact the coronavirus lockdown and the gradual reopening of the economy has on South Africans.

Over the past 11 weeks, quantitative research has been done using a 10-minute questionnaire administered in English.

A total of 4 898 interviews were conducted and the quota structure aligned with the proportions of the general South African population. The results for week eight were obtained from 9 to 15 June.

Of the respondents, 73% were black, 13% white, 9% coloured and 5% Indian or Asian. Women made up 55% of respondents and men 45%. The largest represented age group was 25 to 34 (35%) and the second largest 35 to 49 (29%).

Three in four respondents feel the ban on alcohol and tobacco products has increased illegal trading in their communities.

Author of Dirty Tobacco, Telita Snyckers, said the illegal trade in cigarettes increased to 35% in 2019 and that 100% of cigarettes sold in lockdown are illicit.

She said this industry shows profit margins four times that of cocaine trade. – News24 Wire