Sunsweet Breweries Ordered to Stop Operations for Breaching Public Health Laws
The Lusaka City Council (LCC) has issued a cease and desist order to Sunsweet Breweries Limited, situated in the Chinika area, following a comprehensive inspection that revealed multiple violations of public health laws.
The directive was officially communicated by Nyambe Bulumba, the Assistant Public Relations Manager of LCC.
The decision to halt operations stems from an inspection conducted by Public Health Inspectors who visited the business premises to assess compliance with prevailing health and safety standards.
According to Mr. Bulumba, the findings exposed the brewery’s operations as being conducted in unsanitary conditions, a direct violation of the Food Safety Act No. 7 of 2019.
The inspection uncovered serious infractions, including a full septic tank, unclean and stained restroom facilities, and the overflow of effluent into the surrounding environment.
Sunsweet Breweries was found to be in breach of various regulations, such as poor waste management under section 27(5) of the Waste Regulation and Management Act No. 20 of 2018.
Additionally, the company lacked provisions for lockers in changing rooms, contravening the Public Health Act cap 295 of the laws of Zambia, and maintained unkempt surroundings, violating the same public health statute.
Mr. Bulumba highlighted that the company failed to present essential certificates during the inspection, including a fire certificate for the warehouse, health permit, business levy, food handler’s certificate, and legal documentation from the Local Authority, infringing on the Local Government Act No. 2 of 2019.
As a consequence, Sunsweet Breweries has been fined and directed to address the identified anomalies before resuming operations. Failure to comply may result in the revocation of the company’s license or legal action at the fast-track court at the Civic Centre, as per the council’s warning.
The Lusaka City Council emphasizes the importance of compliance with public health guidelines and regulations for all companies operating within its jurisdiction.
Mr. Bulumba urged the public to remain vigilant and report any company failing to adhere to the prescribed public health standards for prompt intervention by the council.
