By: Sthulile Mdletshe
Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, says the government is considering tighter regulations on the sale and use of Hubbly Bubbly (hookah pipes), vaping products, and other tobacco-related items as part of a broader effort to strengthen public health policies.
Dr Phaahla made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at a World No Tobacco Day stakeholder engagement session held this week.
He emphasised the urgent need to reinforce tobacco control legislation, particularly in response to the rising use of alternative smoking products such as e-cigarettes and hookahs among young people.
“Our aim is to implement stricter regulatory measures that will curb the harmful use of these products and protect public health,” said Phaahla.
He says this includes stronger enforcement of tobacco control policies across the country.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) identifies tobacco use as one of the leading causes of preventable illness and death globally. Each year, tobacco is responsible for more than eight million deaths, including over one million resulting from exposure to second-hand smoke.
South Africa’s Department of Health has been pushing for amendments to the Control of Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Bill, which seeks to align local regulations with global health standards. The bill proposes measures such as plain packaging, bans on smoking in public spaces, advertising restrictions, and the regulation of emerging nicotine products like vapes and heated tobacco.
Despite previous setbacks in Parliament, health advocates and civil society organisations continue to support the bill, citing growing concerns about youth addiction and aggressive marketing by the tobacco industry.
World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on 31 May, is a global initiative led by the WHO to raise awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco and to advocate for effective policies to reduce consumption.
