FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Lusaka, 14 March 2024

On February 21st  2024, the new Coalition Against Illicit Alcohol (CAIA) launched an innovative multi-channel campaign to tackle the consumption of illicit or illegal spirits, commonly known as junta, in Zambia. The focus of the campaign is empowerment and friendship, inviting all Zambians to think about how they can take action to support their friends, their communities, and themselves to make better choices and say no to junta.

The Coalition brings together a diverse array of organizations that represent the best of Zambian society, including the Church, community-based organizations, public health organizations, research and academia, private industry, community media, and the UN system, among others. Co-chaired by Dr. Christopher Kalila MP and Prof. Myriam Sidibé, the Coalition’s objective is to “build a social movement that will transform Zambia by curbing the sale and consumption of illicit alcohol – especially low-cost, high-ABV illicit spirits – galvanizing communities, families, and individual citizens to take a stand.”

Today, the Coalition advanced its campaign with a bold activation event named the Junta Trap, held at the City Market in Lusaka. During this event, an individual was symbolically ‘trapped’ inside a large bottle resembling a typical illicit container, and later dramatically rescued by friends. This event underscores the significant burden faced by many due to addiction to illicit alcohol, highlighting the essential role friends play in assisting those affected to overcome their struggles. The Junta Trap launch marks the beginning of numerous community education activations planned across the country.

Speaking on the event, Coalition Co-Chair Dr. Kalila noted, “The long-lasting impact of the consumption of illicit spirits poses an immense risk to the future growth and prosperity of Zambia, as it cuts down the productivity, purpose, and hope of the largest demographic group in our nation: our youth. We, as concerned citizens and residents of Zambia, cannot stand idly by while over 70% of people ruin their health and lives by consuming illicit alcohol on a regular basis.”

The “Rise Above” campaign launched with a series of radio, television, and outdoor messages, as well as many more exciting and important stories and activations. “Together we have a chance to make a difference,” says Prof. Sidibé, “and we need as many organizations, companies, and citizens to join us as we fight for the health and well-being of this incredible nation, particularly in the reduction of the harmful use of alcohol. It’s only through our combined strength, friendship, and collective action that we can make a difference and #RiseAbove.”

Enquiries

For more details reach out to [email protected] or visit us at noillicitalcohol.org

ABOUT THE COALITION AGAINST ILLICIT ALCOHOL IN ZAMBIA

Our objective as the Coalition Against Illicit Alcohol is to build a social movement that will transform our country by curbing the sale and consumption of illicit alcohol — especially low-cost, high illicit spirits — galvanizing communities, families, and individual citizens to take a stand.