Côte d’Ivoire: Is the ban on alcoholic energy drinks an attempt to divert attention from more pressing health problems?

Alcoholic energy drinks, celebrated for their ability to provide a quick boost of energy and alertness, have become increasingly popular in recent years.

However, this surge in popularity has been accompanied by growing calls for moderation.

Recently, Ivorian authorities imposed a ban on these drinks, often based on unverified claims, raising concerns about the transparency and impartiality of the criticisms leveled against them.

Observers suggest that the decision to ban alcoholic energy drinks might be driven more by power struggles between industry players and authorities than by genuine public health concerns.

They question the foundations of the ban, casting doubt on the credibility of the information that led to this measure.

The controversy intensifies when considering data showing that, despite the ban on alcoholic energy drinks, young people continue to mix Tramadol with other alcoholic beverages.

This situation raises serious questions about the actual effectiveness of the ban in terms of public health.

If the ban fails to curb dangerous behaviors, it might simply be an attempt to divert attention from more pressing health issues.

The ban on alcoholic energy drinks might be overshadowing more urgent public health concerns, such as the abuse of substances like Tramadol.

Rather than enhancing public health, this measure could merely serve to placate fears without addressing the underlying problems.

Authorities may need to focus their efforts on a more holistic, evidence-based approach that includes raising awareness and regulating genuinely dangerous substances.

For effective public health management, it is crucial that authorities reevaluate their strategies. A more transparent and objective approach, based on solid evidence, could better serve the interests of the population. This would involve awareness campaigns on the dangers of Tramadol abuse and targeted measures to combat this public health crisis.

Sherif TOURE