Heineken South Africa has defended its campaign to turn taverns into community hubs in the country’s townships.
The company faces backlash after the corporate affairs director, Millicent Maroga, spoke to eNCA. “We want to transform how taverns are currently being perceived, as unsafe spaces that are quite destructive to the community and transform them to be sustainable businesses and a safe hub for the community,” Maroga said.
In a response, netizens claimed that the alcoholic beverage company is being facetious in its plans.
“A 2017 study by Soul City found that Attridgeville had 147 taverns! Young people say the temptation to drink is high because their homes, schools are encircled by booze outlets and adverts. This ‘taverns of the future’ story is just another predatory tactic by ‘Big Alcohol’,” posted activist Phindile Kunene on X.
Another X user accused Heineken of having high levels of disrespect for black communities. “Alcohol is a substance that has influenced high rates of robbery, rape, sexual misconduct, family disorders, bad financial planning a host of bad habits.”
One X user said this is the gentrification of ‘dop system’.
However, Heineken acknowledged that it is aware of the negative perceptions surrounding taverns, as well as recent incidents where safety and regulatory compliance have not been upheld.
“These realities are exactly why transformation is necessary. We are aware of the negative perceptions surrounding taverns, as well as recent incidents where safety and regulatory compliance have not been upheld,” Heineken told .
“These realities are exactly why transformation is necessary. We work closely with community leaders, policing forums, and safety officers to help create inclusive environments that promote local entrepreneurship and social upliftment. We appreciate the engagement from the public.”
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