Mary Makgaba from POWA says alcohol consumption is partly to be blamed for the scourge of gender-based violence in the country.

"There is some evidence that heavy drinking or frequent drinking, particularly by males who are mostly perpetrators, increases the risk of violence," said Makgaba.

Makgaba says the organisation does not support the lifting of the alcohol.

Meanwhile, Cosatu has joined calls for the ban to be lifted.

Cosatu says government has an equal duty to protect those who depend on the sale of alcohol to make a living.

The union federation says strict regulations should be implemented, to ensure responsible drinking.

eNCA