South African Breweries (SAB) is doubling its commitment to promoting responsible road behaviour.
At the heart of this commitment is the establishment of Alcohol Evidence Centres (AECs), which provide law enforcement with the infrastructure and tools to process drunk-driving offences efficiently. These centres enhance accountability by supporting accurate and timely testing of impaired drivers, making roads safer for everyone.
SAB has invested in 28 Alcohol Evidence Centres across South Africa, with the majority in Gauteng. These state-of-the-art facilities support law enforcement in detecting and addressing drunk driving incidents.
The SAB Sharp initiative is complementing this effort, a long-term platform dedicated to fostering a culture of responsibility. SAB Sharp works through partnerships with government, law enforcement, and community organisations to educate the public, shift societal attitudes, and drive awareness around the dangers of drunk driving and other irresponsible behaviours. These initiatives spotlight SAB’s commitment to creating a safer, more accountable society.
Zoleka Lisa, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at SAB, said, "Our investment in Alcohol Evidence Centres and the SAB Sharp platform reflects our commitment to safer roads and a more responsible society. While these efforts lay a strong foundation, we know true change requires collective action. Every South African has a role in prioritising safety and accountability, especially during the festive season."
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) highlighted the significant impact of SAB’s initiatives, with Superintendent Mike Botolo stating, "As a long-standing partner to SAB on this journey of promoting responsible consumption, I commend the SAB's proactive approach and unwavering commitment to our mandate to regulate irresponsible behaviour on the roads. Since our partnership and through these investments, we’ve seen a substantial increase in arrests of drunk drivers, which has deterred many from drinking and driving, making our roads safer for all."
Lisa concluded, “While our investments in the SAB Sharp initiative and Alcohol Evidence Centres are vital steps toward promoting road safety, they alone cannot solve the problem. We must confront the deeply ingrained tradition of drinking and driving and the mindsets that sustain it. The SAB Sharp platform is instrumental in driving this shift by fostering conversations, raising awareness, and inspiring meaningful behaviour change. True progress, however, depends on collective action. South Africans must take ownership of this challenge to ensure safer roads and stronger communities.”
As South Africans prepare for festive celebrations, SAB calls on individuals, families, and communities to make responsible decisions prioritising safety. Through infrastructure, education, and collective action, SAB is laying the groundwork for a safer, more accountable future. We urge each one of you to join us in this mission, to make responsible drinking choices, and to contribute to a safer society for all.