As the Class of 2024 concludes their final exams, the Gauteng Liquor Board (GLB) is
issuing a stern warning to liquor traders, parents, and learners about the dangers of
“pens down” parties. These events, often associated with excessive alcohol
consumption and risky behaviour, pose significant threats to the safety and wellbeing of young people.
The Gauteng Liquor Act 2 of 2003 strictly prohibits the sale and supply of alcohol
to minors. However, underage drinking continues to be a pervasive issue,
particularly during these celebrations. Following the tragic deaths of 21 youths at
Enyobeni Tavern in East London in 2022 and multiple incidents during 2023 “pens
down” parties—including fatal car crashes and hospitalisations—the GLB is calling
for urgent action to prevent further loss of life.
Fati Manamela, Chief Director of the Gauteng Liquor Board, highlighted the
seriousness of the issue. “The fact that we continue to see alcohol-fuelled end-ofexam celebrations, despite repeated warnings and awareness campaigns,
underscores the severity of this problem. We must act decisively to stop these
dangerous gatherings before more lives are lost.”
The urgency of this issue is underscored by recent incidents. In December 2023,
three pupils from Mnyanande Secondary School in Durban tragically lost their lives in
a car crash after attending a “pens down” party. Similarly, five learners from
Dinwiddie High School in Germiston died in a similar incident. In Kwa-Thema,
Springs, unsupervised parties led to alarming incidents of overconsumption and
other harmful behaviours.
The GLB is urging parents and caregivers to play a pivotal role in preventing such
tragedies.
“Parents and guardians significantly influence their children’s decisions. We urge
them to stay vigilant and actively discourage their children from attending these
unsafe parties. This is a critical period in their lives—they are future leaders who
should be focused on achieving their dreams of higher education and meaningful
careers,” said Manamela.
Liquor traders are also reminded of their legal responsibility to refuse the sale of
alcohol to minors and report any suspicious activities linked to underage drinking.
“We are not against young people celebrating their achievements, but it must be
done legally, responsibly, and under proper supervision. Everyone has a role to play
in ensuring their safety and protecting the future of our youth,” Manamela added.
The Gauteng Liquor Board is calling on communities, schools, and law enforcement
agencies to work together to put an end to these potentially deadly celebrations.
Prevention is essential, and through collective efforts, we can safeguard the lives of
our young people during this festive season.
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