By: The youth Voice Reporter

There has been a nationwide public outcry and social media backlash after videos showing children drinking alcohol in the Eastern Cape circulated online, reigniting debate about South Africa’s growing alcohol problem.The footage, shared widely during the festive season, shows minors consuming alcohol in the presence of adults, with some adults allegedly supplying the alcohol.

The incident has triggered anger across the country, with many South Africans using social media to call out what they describe as the normalisation of alcohol abuse among children.The outrage is not limited to the Eastern Cape. Social media users from across South Africa say similar behaviour has been observed in many communities this festive season, with adults drinking in front of children or encouraging them to consume alcohol.

Eastern Cape MEC for Social Development Bukiwe Fanta has strongly condemned the behaviour of the adults seen in the viral video, saying the incident exposes children to serious health and social risks.The video shows children openly drinking alcohol while adults look on — a situation Fanta described as deeply troubling and irresponsible.“This behaviour is not only unacceptable but poses serious risks to the health and well-being of our youth,” Fanta said.

“Our children are our future, and they must be protected from alcohol and other harmful substances.”Fanta confirmed that the Department of Social Development has deployed social workers to investigate the incident, identify those involved and ensure the affected children receive the necessary care, protection and support.

As the conversation continues online, young people and child-rights activists are calling for accountability from parents and caregivers, warning that South Africa’s alcohol crisis is increasingly putting children at risk.Many have stressed that protecting children from alcohol abuse should be a national priority, not just a seasonal concern.