The health of a nation’s citizens surpasses riches accrued from illicit trade and therefore must not be compromised by taxes from harmful products.
In most African countries, consumers seem to be attracted by the appearance of products and out of curiosity, without analyzing constituents and repercussions.
The burden of safeguarding the citizens, therefore rests upon the government(s), at the central, states, counties and down to Payams, as well as the family heads.
There are some products known for their health hazards or harm to human health but have persisted in the market for decades.
Despite warnings of consumption, cigarettes and alcohol are two products that have bedeviled governments to regulate. Due to taxes these companies pay, governments, world over, have turned blind eyes and deaf ears as these products ravage citizens.
When taxes win governments to the side of producers, then, parents, cultural, religious institutions and leaders must play a role in sensitizing citizens to keep a distance and stay safe.
Not limiting the focus on liquor alone but other toxic products inclusive, there must be stringent measures against consumables, for the well-being of citizens.
Any company that intends to operate in the country must have samples of its product certified by the National Bureau of Standards before getting a license. Periodic tests of the products must also be conducted to ensure the standard is maintained.
However, worse than toxic and harmful products, there is corruption, that derails the law and enforcement, allowing counterfeits to circulate in the markets.
As Central Equatoria State threatens to revoke the license of a liquor company in the city, those entrusted to enforce the order issued must be on check.
For the love of money, counterfeit liquor kills several people in the countries, every year, whereas a local brand known as “Guu” in some parts of Eastern Equatoria state, sends many to the grave.