Uganda’s Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has directed bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments across the country not to open before 3:00 p.m. on working days.

The directive forms part of a broader set of measures aimed at curbing early-morning alcohol consumption, promoting productivity and addressing social problems associated with excessive drinking.

In a directive dated August 11, 2026, Mr Barugahara instructed local government leaders to work with security agencies and enforcement teams to ensure compliance with the new operating-hour restrictions.

“Bars, Malwa joints and other alcohol-selling establishments should not open before 3:00 p.m. on working days, subject to applicable national laws, licensing requirements and lawful local government regulations,” the Minister stated.

He said local leaders should take the lead in discouraging early-morning drinking, particularly practices that encourage people to spend their working hours drinking instead of engaging in productive activities.

According to Mr Barugahara, the measure is intended to address idleness, family problems and rising crime associated with excessive alcohol consumption in some communities.

“Local leaders should take the lead in discouraging early-morning alcohol consumption and work with security agencies and enforcement teams to ensure that bars and alcohol outlets do not operate in a manner that encourages people to spend their mornings drinking instead of working,” he said.

The Minister has also directed authorities to arrest and prosecute bar owners, shopkeepers, Malwa joint operators and other alcohol sellers who supply alcoholic beverages to persons below 18 years.

He instructed local authorities and security agencies to strictly enforce the requirement, warning that establishments found repeatedly violating the law should face appropriate sanctions.

Under the directive, bars and other alcohol outlets that repeatedly violate lawful operating-hour requirements could be closed, with persistent offenders facing further enforcement action in accordance with the law.

Mr Barugahara also called on local governments to regulate the operating hours of betting companies within their respective jurisdictions, in line with applicable laws and regulations.

The measure is intended particularly to protect young people from harmful practices associated with excessive betting.

The Ministry has directed joint security teams, council enforcement officers and other relevant authorities to support local governments in implementing and enforcing the directives.

Mr Barugahara became Uganda’s Minister of Local Government in the 2026–2031 Cabinet after previously serving as State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs.