The Acting Upper East Regional Head of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Mr. Abel Ndego, has cautioned the public against smoking in public spaces, emphasizing its prohibition under the Public Health Act. He highlighted that using tobacco products, including shisha, cigarettes, and cigars, is illegal in places such as restaurants, hotels, offices, markets, schools, and any location where people gather.
Mr. Ndego issued the warning during a sensitization program in Bolgatanga and Kassena-Nankana for operators of hotels, restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs. He clarified that vehicles carrying passengers also constitute public spaces, making smoking inside them a violation of the law. Businesses that wish to permit smoking must establish designated smoking areas with strict FDA approval.
He further explained that displaying tobacco products like shisha hookahs constitutes illegal advertising and reiterated that tobacco companies are barred from sponsoring events. To increase awareness of health risks, the FDA requires tobacco packaging to feature approved health warnings, including pictorial illustrations for non-literate users.
Participants praised the FDA for its proactive engagement and pledged to comply with the regulations to promote public safety. Mr. Ndego encouraged strict adherence to the law, aiming to make the Upper East Region a leader in tobacco control compliance.