Johnson Progress

The Parliament of Zimbabwe is considering a proposal to amend the law to ban smoking in public places, amid growing concerns over the health implications of the habit.

Shamva South legislator Joseph Mapiki tabled a motion in the National Assembly last Thursday, calling for the amendment of the Public Health (Control of Tobacco) Regulations, Statutory Instrument (SI) 264 of 2002.

Mapiki expressed concern over the health risks caused by passive smoking, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

“Children and vulnerable populations are particularly at risk, as their developing bodies are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke,” he said.

Mapiki noted that exposure to passive smoke poses significant health risks to non-smokers, including lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

The current law prohibits smoking in some public spaces, such as buses, halls, and eating places, but does not address smoking in open but congested areas where people gather.

Mapiki said the amendment to SI 264 should include high-traffic public areas such as towns, bus termini, and markets as prohibited smoking zones.

“Without strict laws and enforcement to ban smoking in public areas, passive smoking will remain a significant public health issue,” he said.

Mapiki cited international best practices, noting that countries such as Ireland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand have implemented near-total bans on smoking in public places and workplaces.

“These bans are usually comprehensive, covering indoor public spaces, transport, and often extending to outdoor areas adjacent to building entrances,” he said.

Mapiki also called for the drafting of a comprehensive Tobacco Control Act to ban smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces.

He proposed clear, deterrent penalties for individuals caught smoking in prohibited areas and for establishment owners and managers who fail to enforce the ban.

“Penalties should include fines, with escalating consequences for repeat offenders, potentially including temporary closure of business,” he said.

The proposed ban on public smoking is a step towards creating a healthier environment for all Zimbabweans.

If adopted, the motion will see the law extended to cover high-traffic public areas, providing a safer and healthier environment for citizens.

The move is expected to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and promote public health.