Governor calls for stronger tobacco controls
The proposed review of Namibia’s tobacco-control legislation has highlighted growing concerns over the increasing availability and appeal of emerging nicotine products among young people. Otjozondjupa Regional Governor John //Khamuseb said stronger measures are needed to protect young people from products that are designed to create and sustain nicotine dependence.
He made the remarks on Wednesday during a national consultation workshop hosted by the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MHSS) in Otjiwarongo to review the Tobacco Products Control Act, No. 1 of 2010.
The consultations are aimed at informing the public about the proposed amendments, explaining the need to strengthen tobacco-control legislation and providing stakeholders with an opportunity to raise questions, express concerns and make recommendations.
According to //Khamuseb, new and emerging products and devices, including vapes, electronic cigarettes, hubbly-bubbly, hookah pipes, heated tobacco products and nicotine pouches, are increasingly available and attractive to young people. He said the growing range of products requires stronger protection for young people, particularly against products that can lead to and maintain nicotine dependence.
The review of the Act seeks to strengthen Namibia’s tobacco-control framework, regulate emerging tobacco and nicotine products and align the legislation with the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). During the consultation, public education and awareness also emerged as a key concern.
Participants argued that existing messaging on tobacco use is largely fear-driven and has not been effective in changing users’ behaviour.
They called for more comprehensive, realistic and evidence-based information that reflects the realities of tobacco use and enables people to make informed choices. The consultation therefore provides an opportunity for residents and stakeholders in Otjozondjupa to contribute to the proposed amendments and raise issues they believe should be considered as Namibia strengthens its tobacco-control legislation.
