The Department of Social Development has revealed that South Africans spend approximately R150 billion on alcohol each year, averaging more than R400 million per day. Spending peaked on Christmas Day alone, reaching an estimated R7.7 billion.
By comparison, South Africa’s national health budget stands at around R64 billion, less than half of what is spent annually on alcohol. Alcohol consumption also exceeds the country’s policing budget, placing additional strain on two critical sectors that already face significant challenges.
Health and law enforcement authorities continue to grapple with the consequences of excessive alcohol use. A large proportion of violent crimes and road accidents are linked to alcohol consumption, further increasing the burden on hospitals and police services.
The figures highlight a stark imbalance in national priorities, raising serious questions about the long-term social, economic, and public health impact of alcohol abuse in South Africa
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