||Kharas Youth have called for stronger enforcement of the Tobacco Products Control Act to discourage the use of new and emerging nicotine products, particularly among young people.

They made the call during a public consultation meeting hosted by the Ministry of Health and Social Service in Keetmanshoop on Thursday.

The Ministry of Health and Social Services, in collaboration with the ||Kharas Regional Council, hosted a one-day consultation, which forms part of a nationwide process to gather public input on proposed amendments to the Tobacco Products Control Act, 2010.

The proposed amendments seek to strengthen controls on tobacco and emerging nicotine products, including electronic cigarettes, vapes, and hookah pipes.

Participants raised concerns about vaping and smoking in public places, particularly at petrol stations, and the dangers of second-hand smoking to children and communities, and sought clarity on how the proposed amendments will strengthen enforcement of the law.

“I remember one of the National Council Committee issued a directive on the ban of the use of vapes and other products which are very harmful and dangerous to our communities. “I want to suggest that the National Committee has to lead the implementation of the ban of the usage of vapes and other products that also affects brings dangerous effects to our communities,” said Shaun Appolus. 

“Can the Act properly enforce the prohibition on the sale of tobacco products by street vendors? I think this makes them more easily accessible to everyone, including our children,” added Vapingeria Makari.

Keetmanshoop Mayor Emrico Blaauw said the municipality stands ready to work with the Ministry and the ||Kharas regional council to curb tobacco and nicotine usage and promote public health.

“We must particularly consider how we can protect our young people from being targeted by the tobacco and nicotine industry. Prevention and education must remain important components of our response. Our children should grow up understanding the risks associated with tobacco and nicotine products and should be protected from unnecessary exposure and access to these products.”

The facilitators assured participants that their inputs and recommendations will be considered before the proposed amendments are finalised and taken through the next legislative steps.