NBL urges safe drinking habits
Take a Second
Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) unveiled its comprehensive annual responsible consumption awareness initiative “Take a Second” earlier this week.This campaign aims to foster positive shifts in social attitudes towards alcohol consumption and instil a greater sense of accountability across Namibian communities.
Spearheaded by NBL Corporate Affairs Manager, Surihe Gaomas-Guchu, “Take a Second” addresses the need to normalise responsible alcohol consumption behaviours and eradicate anti-social actions associated with excessive drinking. The campaign strategically targets two key demographics: the vibrant youth embracing life to the fullest and the more moderate, responsible consumers who participate in alcohol consumption during social occasions.
Building upon the success of its 2021 “Be the One” campaign, which celebrated responsible consumption choices, “Take a Second” urges individuals to pause and make responsible decisions surrounding alcohol consumption. Leveraging national media channels such as billboards, radio, print ads, social media, and more, NBL aims to spread awareness and encourage behavioural changes.
Positive results
Early results indicate a positive resonance with Namibian consumers, and NBL plans to sustain the initiative annually to foster long-term behavioural change.
Gaomas-Guchu emphasised that responsible drinking behaviours, like pacing one’s alcohol intake and avoiding drunk driving, should be the norm. “Through engaging cultural narratives, we aim to inspire Namibians to be accountable, drink smarter, and drive positive social change. The campaign encourages consumers to take a second and think about the effects of their actions and consequences.”
In alignment with its commitment to responsible consumption, NBL promotes moderation, balanced lifestyles, and actively collaborates with partners to curb harmful drinking practices such as excessive consumption, drunk driving, drinking during pregnancy, and under-age drinking.
The campaign complements NBL's online learning platform, EduDrink, which offers guidance on determining personal limits and pacing drinks responsibly.
Additionally, NBL pledged N$200 000 to support road safety initiatives countrywide, including N$90 000 for refreshments to NamPol at roadblocks and contributions to the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund's road safety awareness efforts.
EduDrink has already seen success within the public and across NBL’s corporate partners. To date, 2 648 individuals completed the EduDrink six-part online course this year. The free educational platform is accessible via www.edudrink.com; the public is encouraged to continue enhancing their knowledge on responsible consumption.