South Africa is well known for its warm, friendly people and rich heritage, which we would like to build on for generations to come. However, to protect and empower this generation and the next, we also need to cultivate a culture of responsible alcohol consumption.

International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Day on 9 September shines a light on one of the harmful effects of alcohol abuse that affect communities across South Africa. “It’s our duty as individuals, communities and an industry to inform expectant mothers of the adverse effects of consuming alcohol during pregnancy. The message is clear: no amount of alcohol is acceptable for pregnant women,” says Rico Basson, managing director of the wine industry body Vinpro.

“However, it is also important that these mothers are surrounded by family and friends that support and encourage them throughout their pregnancy. To do this, we need to create a community culture of responsible drinking.”

Stakeholders in the wine and alcohol industry has crafted a specific responsible consumption strategy, underpinned by targeted interventions to address alcohol-related harms –including drinking and walking under the influence, binge drinking, underage drinking and consuming alcohol while pregnant – but more importantly, to address the root cause of this behaviour. Vinpro, in collaboration with industry bodies like Aware.org (Association for Alcohol Responsibility and Education) helps provide the necessary resources, acquire funding, develop and roll out programmes and campaigns to achieve this.

“We encourage wineries and communities to collaborate, use the available resources and get involved in support programmes in their area to promote moderate alcohol consumption and help individuals cope with the underlying socioeconomic issues that often lead to abuse. Together, we can change our culture for a brighter future,” Rico says.

MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Wanda Augustyn
Vinpro Communication Manager
Tel: 021 276 0458
E-mail: wanda@wineland.co.za