Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa
Herald Reporter
THE Youth Against Alcohol and Drug Dependency (YADD) has welcomed a motion by Shamva South legislator, Mr Joseph Mapiki, calling for a nationwide ban on smoking in public spaces, describing it as a vital step towards protecting citizens from the dangers of tobacco use and second-hand smoke.
The organisation says the move aligns with Zimbabwe’s obligations under the World Health Organisation (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).
In a statement yesterday, YADD said scientific evidence linking passive smoking to serious health risks is clear and compelling, and protecting people especially children, youth and vulnerable groups from such risks is a public health imperative.
“Passive smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, respiratory infections, asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and certain cancers, even among non-smokers.
“This progressive motion reflects growing recognition of the urgent need to protect citizens from the dangers of tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke,” read the statement
YADD urged Parliament and Government to fast-track legislation, strengthen enforcement and intensify public education campaigns to safeguard the health of all Zimbabweans.
“It is crucial to prioritise public health by fast-tracking legislation to ban smoking in all public spaces, aligning with WHO FCTC recommendations.
“Let’s strengthen enforcement and public education to ensure every Zimbabwean can breathe clean air,” said YADD.
The statement emphasised the need to advance policies that put people’s health above the interests of the tobacco industry.
