Namibia is intensifying efforts to reduce tobacco use and protect public health, according to the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Esperance Luvindao.
In a statement delivered on her behalf by Outjo Constituency Councillor John Antsino during the World No Tobacco Day commemoration in Outjo, Dr Luvindao noted the country has made significant progress.
Measures already in place include the ban on tobacco advertising, restrictions on smoking in public spaces and government buildings, and the prohibition of tobacco use by minors.
“World No Tobacco Day serves as a powerful reminder of the public health crisis caused by tobacco and nicotine products, which claim over 8 million lives annually,” said Councillor Antsino.
“Tobacco Day 2025 is not just a call to action but also a spotlight on how the industry targets young people through manipulation and deceit.”
Dr Luvindao raised concern about the growing number of teenagers and young adults who smoke, stating that they now rank among the highest in tobacco use in the country.
She said health teams had conducted a two-week awareness campaign in April, targeting schools, public spaces, markets, informal settlements, and entry points.
“The aim was to create awareness and strengthen health promotion on the dangers of smoking and the use of new emerging tobacco and nicotine products, especially among school children and youth,” she stated.
“It also aimed to assess implementation and compliance with the Tobacco Product Control Act No. 1 of 2010 and its regulations.”
Cecilia Kaunatjike, Health Promotion Officer at the World Health Organisation, read a message on behalf of WHO Country Representative Dr Richard Banda.
“As guardians of health, we have a role to play,” she said.
“Government, schools, families, and communities must work together to ensure that the environment in which our children grow is free from tobacco exposure and influence. This means updating laws to reflect today’s challenges and strengthening protections against emerging products and platforms.”
This year’s commemoration was held under the theme “Unmasking the Appeal”, which focused on how tobacco industries target youth through flavoured products, deceptive marketing, and addictive product designs.