Despite robust legislation enacted over fifteen years ago, smoking in public venues remains a widespread and largely unpunished practice across Chad, particularly within its bustling capital, N’Djamena.
A short walk through N’Djamena vividly illustrates the stark contrast between legal mandates and daily reality. In major marketplaces like the Central Market or Dembé, vendors and shoppers alike openly light up amidst crowded aisles. The pervasive cigarette smoke mingles with dust and the varied aromas of food.
« We’ve grown accustomed to the cigarette smoke here; it’s something we breathe in every day. Regulations were put in place, but nobody seems to follow them. It’s truly unacceptable, » shared Pélagie, a fish vendor.
« In other nations, designated smoking areas exist, but unfortunately, in Chad, we are all mixed together. Even inside schools and hospitals, people continue to smoke. The government must step up and fulfill its responsibilities, » Christian added emphatically.
Many Chadians, like Pélagie and Christian, involuntarily become passive smokers in various settings, including bars, restaurants, and even taxis. « I suffer from asthma and am highly allergic to both cigarette and shisha smoke. This is why I’ve stopped frequenting restaurants; no one there adheres to the rules. »
Exposure to passive smoking significantly elevates non-smokers’ risks for various cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to these dangers. Environmentally, discarded cigarette butts litter streets and pose a considerable fire hazard.
Law No. 010/PR/2010, enacted on June 10, 2010, specifically addresses tobacco control, explicitly prohibiting smoking in all public places, enclosed workplaces, and public transportation. It also provides protections for pregnant women and minors, outlining penalties for non-compliance.
Implementing decrees, such as Decree No. 1522/PR/MSP/2019, subsequently clarified the practical application of this law. Public awareness campaigns were launched by the Ministry of Public Health and the N’Djamena city council, and an anti-tobacco brigade was even established. Yet, more than a decade later, enforcing this legislation remains one of Chad’s most persistent challenges.
