Zambia’s Tobacco Control victory earns Continental praise …ATCA hails historic passage of Tobacco Control Bill as major Public Health milestone

Wednesday, May 5, 2026 – Lusaka

Zambia’s adoption of the long-awaited Tobacco Control Bill has been hailed as a historic breakthrough for public health, with the African Tobacco Control Alliance (ATCA) describing the development as a turning point not only for Zambia but for the African continent at large.

In a statement released from Lome, Togo, ATCA congratulated the Zambian Government, Parliament, public health advocates and civil society organisations for what it termed a “landmark achievement” in the fight against tobacco-related harm.

ATCA said Zambia’s decision to enact the legislation sends a clear and powerful message across Africa that the health and well-being of citizens must take precedence over the commercial interests of the tobacco industry.

The alliance noted that the newly adopted law introduces comprehensive measures aimed at curbing tobacco use and protecting future generations from nicotine addiction.

Among its key provisions are a total ban on tobacco and nicotine product advertising and promotion, restrictions on sales to minors, establishment of smoke-free public spaces, and provision of cessation support services for individuals seeking to quit smoking.

The legislation also establishes a dedicated Tobacco Control Fund to ensure sustainable financing for enforcement and long-term implementation.

ATCA commended the Ministry of Health for what it described as steadfast leadership in championing the legislation despite sustained pressure from multinational tobacco corporations and vested interests.

The alliance also praised Members of Parliament for taking what it called a courageous and principled stand in support of public health.

“Their vote reflects responsible leadership and a strong commitment to safeguarding the health of the Zambian people,” the statement said.

Special recognition was also given to civil society organisations, journalists and public health advocates whose persistent efforts helped ensure that the Bill remained evidence-based and aligned with Zambia’s international obligations under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO-FCTC). ATCA has since appealed to Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema to quickly assent to the Bill to preserve the momentum generated by its passage and allow immediate commencement of implementation.

According to the alliance, prompt assent will ensure that years of advocacy translate into tangible public health gains without unnecessary delays.

ATCA further observed that Zambia’s achievement carries continental significance because of the country’s position as one of Africa’s major tobacco-growing nations.

The country is often considered among the most difficult environments for advancing tobacco control due to the deep-rooted economic and political influence of the tobacco industry.

The alliance said Zambia has now demonstrated that meaningful progress is possible even in challenging contexts when governments, lawmakers, civil society and the media unite around a common public health agenda.

“This milestone renews hope for other tobacco-growing nations across Africa. Zambia has proven that the narrative can change, and that protecting citizens from tobacco harm is realistic and achievable,” ATCA stated.

ATCA reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting Zambia through technical and financial assistance as the country transitions from legislation to implementation.

The organisation described the Bill’s passage as “a victory for Zambia, a victory for Africa, and a victory for future generations.”

The African Tobacco Control Alliance is a pan-African network of civil society organisations operating in 39 countries and is dedicated to promoting public health and reducing tobacco-related harm across the continent.