Ivory Coast: The wind of controversy that blows, since the ban on alcoholic energy drinks
Since the announcement of the ban on alcoholic energy drinks by Ivorian authorities, a wave of protest has swept across the country. This measure, intended to protect public health, has sparked strong opposition from both the public and merchants. They denounce the decision as unfair and arbitrary, demanding an urgent review of this regulation.
Ivorian authorities justified the ban on alcoholic energy drinks due to public health concerns. Despite the authorities’ good intentions, the measure has encountered significant resistance. Merchants, in particular, have expressed their discontent.
For many of them, alcoholic energy drinks represent a significant source of income. The ban has not only reduced their revenue but has also caused dissatisfaction among their customers, who are now deprived of their favorite drinks.
Among the population, especially young adults, the sense of injustice is palpable. They feel that the state has not considered their consumption habits and has deprived them of their freedom of choice. For some, this ban is an intrusion into their lifestyle and a paternalistic decision that merely shifts the problem without solving it.
In the face of growing discontent, many voices are calling on the authorities to reconsider their decision. Critics point to the lack of prior consultation with stakeholders, including merchants and consumers. They suggest that less drastic measures could have been considered, such as strict regulation of the sale of these drinks or awareness campaigns about the risks associated with their consumption.
Public health experts also propose alternative solutions, such as regulating advertising for these products or implementing educational programs in schools and universities. The goal would be to raise awareness among young people about the dangers of combining alcoholic energy drinks with other harmful substances, without depriving them of their freedom of choice.
