The True Cost of Alcohol: Advocacy and Action by Nomcebo Dlamini

Nomcebo Dlamini, the Campaign Director of the Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance South Africa (SAAPA-SA), is on a mission to transform alcohol policy and reduce alcohol-related harm. With an impressive career spanning substance use policy, public health advocacy, and government engagement, Dlamini focuses on protecting women, children, and young people.

She believes that policy should prioritize people over profits, and advocacy must always keep evidence, community experiences, and human dignity at the forefront of decision-making.

Alcohol's impact on South Africa is severe and largely misunderstood. Dlamini highlights that alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it causes cancer, similar to tobacco and asbestos. Unfortunately, many South Africans are unaware of this risk, comparing alcohol to these known carcinogens. Moreover, alcohol-related harm costs South Africa between 10% and 12% of its gross domestic product, a figure that also affects households and communities through gender-based violence (GBV).

Dlamini's advocacy journey began when she was appointed by Parliament to the Central Drug Authority, where she later became Deputy Chairperson. This role allowed her to oversee the implementation of South Africa's National Drug Master Plan and engage directly with government on substance use policy. She now leads the True Cost of Alcohol Campaign, a national advocacy movement that involves various stakeholders and focuses on policies and systems that influence alcohol availability, affordability, and marketing.

Born on June 10, 1973, Dlamini grew up between Eswatini and South Africa, exposed to different cultures and early instilled with the values of inequality, justice, and the power of ordinary people standing up for change. Her mother's strong political activism and unwavering support gave Dlamini the confidence to speak up for what she believes in, even when it challenges the status quo.

Determined to bring different sectors together, Dlamini knows that addressing alcohol harm requires collaboration between health, social development, education, law enforcement, local government, and many other stakeholders. Her faith and strong family support provide her with the motivation and strength to persevere in her advocacy work, even when change seems slow. For Dlamini, the affected communities are the driving force behind her continued commitment to creating healthier, safer communities.