The World Health Organization (WHO) has underscored the critical need to shield public health policy from interference by the alcohol industry.

This call to action came during the SAFER Inter-Country Learning Workshop held in Accra, Ghana, where key stakeholders from 15 African countries gathered to address the pressing issues of alcohol control and road safety.

Dr Frank Lule, WHO Representative of Ghana, highlighted the importance of establishing a robust and sustainable monitoring system to ensure accountability in implementing the SAFER Initiative.

This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Bloomberg Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), aims to combat harmful alcohol consumption and improve road safety across the continent.

The workshop brought attention to the fact that while current alcohol consumption rates in Africa were lower than the global average, the average intake per drinker was 25% above worldwide estimates. This discrepancy points to an urgent need for comprehensive policies that not only regulate alcohol availability but also implement effective measures against drink-driving.

"The protection of public health must take precedence over the interests of the alcohol industry," Dr Lule emphasised, advocating for transparent policymaking that prioritises the health of communities. He further stressed the urgent need for Member States to collaborate on developing and enforcing regulations that deter harmful drinking behaviours.

A strong monitoring system, Dr Lule noted, was essential for tracking progress and ensuring SAFER interventions were effectively implemented. This system would help hold stakeholders accountable and measure the impact of initiatives aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm and improving road safety.

As participants engage in discussions on policy development and best practices, the overarching goal remains: to foster healthier environments free from the pressures of alcohol industry influence while paving the way for safer roads throughout Africa.