The Eswatini government lifted the ban on the sale and distribution of alcohol on Monday but called for strict adherence to measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement, the government said bars and other establishments are now allowed to sell beer but the “liquor shall only be sold for home use.”
“Drinking in public places, at picnics and the hosting of house parties is not allowed,” the statement said.
Hotel residents are to consume liquor only in their rooms, it said.
Liquor businesses are expected to “enforce the wearing of masks and the observation of social distancing by everyone entering their premises as well as ensure that there is no loitering around their premises.”
In another measure, the government called on Swatis to avoid drinking from the same bottle as this would lead to the spread of COVID-19.
“Liquor is to be served in glasses and strictly no sharing,” the statement said.
The lifting of the alcohol sales and distribution ban is part of an attempt by the Eswatini government to reopen the economy and other socio-economic activities following a national lockdown imposed in April to contain the spread of COVID-19.
JN/APA