STOP INTERFERING THE TOBACCO CONTROL BILL ENACTMENT PROCESS! - Kapolyo

 

“This is determined to sabotage a bill that prioritizes the wellbeing of Zambian youths from the harmful effects of tobacco use…………….

By Daily News Reporter

Tobacco Association of Zambia (TAZ) held the engagement and awareness meeting with members of Parliament for the committee on health, social, and community development and the committee on agriculture, land, and natural resources in Lusaka,

Speaking during the meeting TAZ Board Chairman Phil Daka stated that the tobacco industry has played a role in shaping the country's cultural heritage.

He also noted that the sector has seen an increase in foreign direct investments in cigar manufacturing and commitments towards primary processing plants in various multi-facility economic zones (MFEZs), including Lusaka South MFEZ and Chibombo MFEZ. Over $125.3 million has been invested in the past five years, contributing close to 3% to the nation's gross domestic product.

He emphasized that Zambia is a member of the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which is a global treaty, and as such, the country navigates the complex terrain of balancing the economic benefits of tobacco cultivation with the undeniable health risks associated with its consumption.

"This includes ensuring a delicate balance between the interests of farmers, tobacco industry stakeholders, the well-being of citizens, and the long-term economic sustainability of the nation," Daka said.

Mr. Daka added that the company and industry stakeholders have requested that, as the measures on tobacco consumption or use escalate, there is a need for an all-inclusive approach and not leaving anyone behind in order to have a comprehensive and balanced legal framework for tobacco use.

He added that these measures should not undermine the lives of hard-working farmers or cut down the tobacco industry; instead, they should seek to promote a sustainable future for both the industry and the nation, guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.

He has further urged all stakeholders involved to engage in constructive dialogue and adopt a balanced and evidence-based approach.

"The tobacco industry can create a tobacco industry that not only safeguards the health of citizens but also supports farmers and ensures the long-term sustainability of the tobacco industry in Zambia."

Meanwhile Africa Tobacco Control Youth Ambassador Given Kapolyo has condemned attempts by the tobacco industry in Zambia to undermine the tobacco control bill through engagement activities with Members of Parliament.

“It is disturbing to see the tobacco industry organize a meeting with selected committees of parliamentarians under the guise of engagement and awareness,” she said.

Speaking to Daily News in an interview in Lusaka, Ms. Kapolyo has called on the executive and Speaker of the National Assembly to take note of this blatant inference and question why the tobacco industry feels the need to engage members of parliament outside the confines of parliament now, when the bill is about to be taken to parliament.

“This should not happen because this is determined to sabotage a bill that prioritizes the wellbeing of Zambian youths from the harmful effects of tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke,” She said.