CWGH Calls for Unified Action Against Tobacco Harm

Rutendo Mazhindu - ZimNow Reporter

The Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) has reiterated that tobacco use remains one of Zimbabwe’s most pressing public health concerns, as the nation joined the rest of the world in commemorating World No Tobacco Day.

CWGH Executive Director Mr Itai Rusike said tobacco and narcotic products continue to pose grave health risks, especially among young people, and called for urgent action to address the threat.

“There is a substantive body of evidence on the harmful health effects of tobacco smoke,” he said.

“Tobacco use is a known risk factor for cancer through DNA damage, and for lung and cardiovascular disease through damage to blood vessels, increased risk of clotting, and damage to the lining of the lungs.”

He added that there is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke. “An increase in the duration of smoking and the number of cigarettes smoked per day significantly increases the risk and severity of many smoking-related illnesses.”

While acknowledging the role of tobacco in Zimbabwe’s economy, Mr Rusike said public health must not be compromised.

“The context for tobacco control in Zimbabwe is complicated by the fact that the country is a producer of tobacco,” he said.

“Large and small scale farmers and workers currently depend on tobacco production for income, and it contributes a large share of export earnings.”

“Nevertheless, as the Zimbabwe Tobacco Association itself agrees, this should not draw attention away from the proven harmful health effects of tobacco use, and the rising burden of disease, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, youth, and pregnant women.”

He called for the adoption of effective and fair public health control measures to minimise harm from tobacco products. “International experience and public health evidence suggest measures that reduce demand, discourage initiation, promote cessation, and eliminate exposure to second-hand smoke,” he said.

Mr Rusike said enforcement remains weak in areas where partial restrictions exist, and that a comprehensive legal framework would be necessary to create smoke-free environments.

“A more comprehensive law may be desirable to ensure complete smoke-free environments for all youths, including prohibitions on smoking in restaurants, public gathering places, and a total ban on all direct tobacco advertising,” he said.

This year’s World No Tobacco Day theme, “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Narcotic Products”, highlights the manipulative strategies used by the tobacco industry to attract new users, particularly young people.

These include aggressive marketing, the spread of misleading information on the safety of tobacco products, and the use of attractive packaging and sponsorship of youth-centred events.

“Young people are often targeted by tobacco and narcotics marketing, making it essential to empower them as advocates for change,” Mr Rusike said.

“Through education and youth engagement, communities can foster a culture of health that empowers individuals to make informed decisions, ultimately reducing the impact of these harmful substances,” said Mr Rusike.

“By taking action, we can contribute to a healthier future for all, free from the grip of tobacco and narcotics.”