Moses Onya is the President of the Beverage Consumers and Bar Owners Association of Ghana

The Beverage Consumers and Bar Owners Association of Ghana, popularly known as the "Ghana Drunkards Association," led by its President, Moses Onya, aka Moses Drybone, has issued a stern warning to the government over the high prices of alcoholic beverages.

The association has threatened to stage a nationwide demonstration if the government fails to address the issue within a three-week ultimatum.

Speaking at a press conference held in Kumasi (Cultural Center), Onya, also known as Moses Drybone, stated that the exorbitant prices, driven by high taxes on imported raw materials for beverage production, are crippling businesses in the sector and making alcoholic drinks unaffordable for consumers.

He highlighted that the recent appreciation of the Cedi against major foreign currencies had not translated into lower prices for beverages, exacerbating the problem.

"Our members are facing severe hardship. Drinking spots, pubs, and kiosks are collapsing across Ghana," Onya stated, "We cannot continue to stand by while our livelihoods are destroyed. If the President, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, and the Minister for Trade and Industry, Honorable Elizabeth Ofosu Egyare, do not take expeditious measures to ensure that prices of beverages are reduced within three weeks, we will be forced to take to the streets."

The association emphasized that the Ghanaian beverage industry is a significant contributor to the nation's economy, with the sector's GDP estimated at around $125 million USD.

They projected a market size of $31.80 million in 2025, with a consistent growth rate in the coming years. However, they warned that the current economic challenges are threatening this growth.

Onya highlighted the association's past initiatives, including the "Don't Drink and Vote" and "Don't Drink and Drive" campaigns, demonstrating their commitment to nation-building and responsible consumption.

He stressed that these initiatives were funded by members' contributions without support from local beverage companies.

The Drunkards Association is calling on the government to review and reduce taxes on raw materials, citing that these taxes are passed onto the consumer leading to a rise in prices. They believe this measure will revitalize the industry and benefit consumers.

Reiterating the association's dedication to the well-being of its members and the country, Moses Drybone disclosed that the coming weeks are considered crucial as they look forward to seeing the government respond to the association's demands and expect a resolution to avert the challenges.