Zambia Pushes for Stronger Tobacco Control to Protect Public Health
The Ministry of Health has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the health of Zambians through enhanced tobacco control measures, as discussions around the Tobacco Control Bill 2025 take centre stage.
During the Judges’ Engagement Meeting on Tobacco Control, held from 20–23 October at the Lusaka Legacy Resort, Dr. Matilda Kakungu, Director of Public Health, delivered opening remarks on behalf of Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services.
Dr. Kakungu highlighted the inadequacy of current legislation in addressing emerging challenges, particularly among young people, stressing the urgent need for stronger laws to curb tobacco use and its devastating health impacts.
“Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death. Each year, it kills over eight million people globally, mostly in low- and middle-income countries like ours,” she said.
The meeting, which brought together members of the judiciary, aimed to deepen understanding of the proposed Bill and the courts’ role in enforcing tobacco control measures, ensuring the right to health for all Zambians.
Dr. Kakungu emphasised that comprehensive tobacco legislation, including restrictions on advertising and sales to minors, and bans on smoking in public places, has been proven to reduce addiction rates and improve public health outcomes.
“Strong tobacco laws are not only a matter of policy; they are a matter of saving lives. Tobacco control allows people to reclaim their personal freedom from a habit that steals health and potential,” she noted.
The Ministry of Health expressed gratitude to the judiciary for their engagement, highlighting that cross-sector collaboration is essential to achieving a tobacco-free Zambia.
Georgia M. Chimombo, Principal Public Relations Officer and Spokesperson for the Ministry, echoed the sentiment: “Think of my health first, not tobacco industry profits.”
