2FIRSTS | Namibia Moves to Tighten Laws on E-Cigarettes and Emerging Nicotine Products
Namibia is revising its tobacco control laws to regulate e-cigarettes and emerging nicotine products, aiming to curb illicit trade and protect public health.Summary
Namibia is taking steps to strengthen its tobacco control efforts by tightening regulations on e-cigarettes and other emerging nicotine products. Deputy Health Minister Susan Ndjaleka announced the government is reviewing the Tobacco Products Control Act to address gaps in regulation and combat the growing black market, also seeking to join the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products. Experts, including WHO representative Richard Banda and public health expert Nalucha Mulenga, highlight the increasing tobacco use in Africa and the challenges of enforcing existing laws, particularly regarding the aggressive marketing of these products to young people through social media. Concerns remain about youth access, the perception of these products as harmless, and the strain on Namibia’s health infrastructure. Despite rising demand and difficulties in preventing sales to minors, stakeholders acknowledge the need for decisive action to regulate these products before they become further normalized among the youth.
(Source：2Firsts)
