Windhoek: Governor Vipuakuje Muharukua has called for urgent strengthening of Namibia's tobacco-control laws to protect young people from emerging nicotine products that are increasingly becoming accessible and attractive to them.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Muharukua made the call on Friday in Opuwo during a public consultation hosted by the Ministry of Health and Social Services to review the Tobacco Products Control Act No. 1 of 2010. The review seeks to strengthen tobacco-control legislation and address emerging tobacco and nicotine products that are not adequately covered under the current Act.
Muharukua said nearly 90% of daily smokers first experiment with tobacco before the age of 18, highlighting the need for stronger measures to protect children and young people from nicotine dependence. 'The tobacco and nicotine product landscape has changed considerably since the Act was enacted in 2010,' he said.
He pointed to vapes or electronic cigarettes, hubbly-bubbly or hookah pipes, heated tobacco products and nicotine pouches as some of the emerging products increasingly available to young people. According to Muharukua, many of these products are marketed through appealing flavours, colours and designs, creating the misleading perception that they are harmless or safer than conventional tobacco products.
He said the proposed amendments should ensure that Namibia's legislation keeps pace with these developments and adequately regulates both conventional tobacco products and emerging nicotine products. Muharukua said the consultation provides an opportunity for the public to understand the proposed amendments and contribute questions, concerns and recommendations.
He encouraged stakeholders to participate actively and constructively, particularly by providing evidence-informed contributions and practical solutions to potential implementation challenges. The governor said recommendations should strengthen the protection of children, young people and non-smokers against the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine products.
He added that public consultations are important for promoting transparency, inclusive participation and shared ownership of stronger tobacco-control measures. 'Every contribution matters and will assist the ministry in finalising amendments that effectively protect the health and well-being of our people,' Muharukua said.
The consultations are being conducted countrywide from 31 August to 15 September 2026.