A viral video showing minors openly consuming alcohol in the presence of adults has drawn sharp criticism from civil society organisations, with concerns mounting over child safety and alcohol abuse.
The video, which has circulated widely on social media, shows children believed to be between the ages of five and twelve openly drinking alcohol while elderly individuals watch on without intervening.
The incident has sparked outrage among civil society groups, child protection advocates and government officials.
Anti-drug non-profit organisation World Changers has described the incident as deeply troubling. Its candidate, Luca Mahlakgane, said the video reflects a broader societal failure to recognise alcohol as a dangerous and addictive substance.
“When I first saw that video, the first thing that came to mind was that as a nation it doesn't click in our minds that alcohol is a drug, and like any other drug, it's addictive; it's not something you can experiment with. Over 90% of those kids will continue after this incident, will take that behaviour to schools and influence more children.”
Mahlakgane added that early exposure to alcohol normalises substance use among children and increases the risk of addiction and other social problems later in life.
“Our society is so damaged already by alcohol, and it is sad to see adults passing on the damage to their children. That incident is not an isolated one; many families are doing the same thing, saying they would rather be the one to introduce alcohol to their children, not realising they are introducing them to addiction.”
Mahlakgane also raised concerns about the lack of effective legal deterrents.
“Parents, guardians and communities as a whole should be more informed about the damage gateway drugs such as alcohol and tobacco cause to our nation as a whole, as it leads to more social ills. I don't believe we even have laws to curb this. “Alcohol not for sale to children under 18” is not a law; it is just an advertisement, because it says, “can not sell but you can give,” he said, warning that early alcohol exposure can affect brain development and contribute to mental health challenges.
The Forum for South Africa (FOSA) has also weighed in, supporting the condemnation by Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta and welcoming her call for a full investigation.
“Allowing or encouraging minors to consume alcohol is a criminal offence and a gross violation of children’s rights. We call on law enforcement agencies, social development authorities, and community structures to act decisively against those responsible,” said Tebogo Mashilompane, FOSA’s National Leader.
“Adults who expose children to alcohol abuse must be held accountable without delay.
Mashilompane urged members of the public with information related to the incident to come forward, emphasising that protecting children is a collective responsibility.
“FOSA further urges members of the public who may have information relating to this incident to come forward and assist authorities. Protecting children is a collective responsibility, and silence only enables abuse and neglect.”
The Department of Social Development has confirmed that it is investigating the incident following a series of similar videos circulating online. The department has called on witnesses or anyone with information about the location or individuals involved to report the matter to authorities.
Minister of Social Development Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe has also appealed to South Africans to curb alcohol abuse, particularly during the festive season.
“Alcohol and drugs rob families of precious moments, fuel violence, contribute to road fatalities and derail the future of our children and youth,” she said.
“To the youth of South Africa, choose fun, games, sport and quality family time instead of alcohol or drugs. You are precious, and your future matters.”
Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has reiterated her condemnation of the incident, confirming that the department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the viral video.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star