A Workshop on Designing an Effective National Alcohol Policy for Ghana

IMANI Center for Policy and Education, a registered Ghanaian think-tank has been involved internationally in exchanging best practices on self-regulation of advertising and marketing of beverage alcohol. At the last regional workshop held in Cape Town from October 19-20, 2006, stakeholders (government, Industry and think–tanks) from across the world, resolved to:

• Encourage Government, Industry and Public Health Partnerships on alcohol policy development
• Encourage beverage alcohol companies to support Governments in the development of alcohol policies
• Set standards for alcohol production, distribution, retail, and consumption
• Encourage affordable alternatives to illicit alcohol and create a safe and responsible drinking culture
• Ensure effective enforcement of regulations and self-regulations.

In a little less than a year, many countries in Africa have moved on with a progressive national alcohol policy. Ghana is yet to make that important step. On Thursday, September 6 2007, from: 9:30am- 5:00pm At: Alisa Hotel, North Ridge Accra, stakeholders discussed proposed statutes on beverage alcohol marketing and advertising in Ghana.
Since it is critical that a national alcohol policy maintains a balance between alcohol consumption, Impact of local trade policies on the Industry, International trade treaties, national revenue and employment generation, we thought your input will help enhance the process. Your comments should guide us to have a more acceptable policy for Industry stakeholders.
The Welcome remarks and introduction of Facilitator (Mr. Keith Evans, ICAP) was given by Franklin Cudjoe, Executive Director,IMANI
A Presentation on what informed current regulations of the Alcohol Industry by Mr. Kwamena Van-Ess, Deputy CEO, Food & Drugs Board
A Presentation on Alcohol consumption and public health concerns was given by Minister of Health, Major Courage Quarshigah