Lusaka — Young people, student leaders, and youth representatives have issued a strong appeal to lawmakers to pass the Tobacco Control Bill No. 40 of 2025, describing it as a critical step toward safeguarding the nation’s health and future.
Addressing the media, Dr. Victor Lilanda said there is no justification for weakening the proposed legislation to accommodate an industry that profits from addiction and harm.
He emphasized that the Bill represents more than just legislation, calling it a defining moment for Zambia and its commitment to protecting future generations from the harmful effects of tobacco use.
Dr. Lilanda warned that young people are increasingly being targeted by the tobacco industry through appealing flavors, peer-driven marketing, and subtle messaging that masks the dangers of addiction. He noted that behind these tactics lies a reality of disease, lost potential, and long-term health consequences.
He dismissed claims that the Bill would lead to economic decline, job losses, or increased illicit trade, describing such arguments as misleading narratives designed to protect industry profits. He further alleged that some stakeholders, including farmers and consumers, are being influenced to spread misinformation in the media.
Meanwhile, Annie Kapolyo, Programs Officer at the Alliance for Accountability Advocates Zambia, emphasized that the proposed law is aimed at protecting public health rather than punishing individuals.
She noted that tobacco farming often traps small-scale farmers in cycles of debt and dependency instead of providing sustainable livelihoods. Citing regional evidence, she added that farmers in countries such as Zimbabwe and Malawi frequently earn less from tobacco compared to alternative crops.
Aligning with the Ministry of Health Zambia, Ms. Kapolyo stressed that effective tobacco control measures can significantly reduce healthcare costs and ease the economic burden caused by tobacco-related diseases. She pointed to national survey data showing concerning levels of tobacco and e-cigarette use among both young people and adults, describing the situation as a public health emergency.
She also challenged the notion that tobacco use is purely a matter of personal choice, arguing that addiction is often engineered through deliberate product design and marketing strategies targeting young people.
The youth called on Members of Parliament to pass the Bill without delay or dilution, insisting that strong regulation—not weak laws—is essential to curb illicit trade and protect vulnerable populations.
In addition, Moses Besa, National Coordinator of the Young Professionals Network, dismissed claims that stricter regulations would fuel illicit trade or negatively impact farmers.
He raised concern over what he described as increasing industry interference in public discourse, including the use of influential figures to shape opinion against the Bill. Such tactics, he said, mirror longstanding global strategies aimed at weakening public health policies.
Addressing national leadership directly, the group urged Hakainde Hichilema and lawmakers to act decisively in the public interest.
“This is your moment,” the statement read. “Choose health over profit. Choose truth over influence. Choose the future over short-term gains.”
The youth concluded by affirming their stance, stating that they refuse to become victims of an industry built on addiction and are calling for a Zambia where their health, potential, and future are protected.
By Samuel Mbewe
(©)Shout Zambia News
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