Burkina Faso Bans Smoking, Vaping in All Public Spaces
Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa
As of October 17, 2025, Burkina Faso has implemented a sweeping ban on smoking and vaping in all public spaces—both indoor and outdoor—in a bold move to curb health risks and protect non-smokers.
What We Know:
- The new law prohibits the use of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and all vaping or electronic nicotine products in public places including markets, bus stops, parks, restaurants, government offices, and schools.
- The Ministry of Health stated that the policy aims to reduce secondhand smoke exposure and combat rising tobacco use among youth.
- Enforcement has already begun, with violators subject to on-the-spot fines, arrest, and potential prosecution.
Penalties:
- First-time offenders risk fines equivalent to 25,000–100,000 CFA francs (₦60,000–₦240,000).
- Repeat violations may lead to detention or higher fines, depending on the severity.
Why It Matters:
- Burkina Faso has one of the highest passive smoking exposure rates in West Africa, according to WHO data.
- The country joins a growing list of African nations adopting tougher anti-smoking laws amid rising health care costs linked to smoking-related diseases.
- Public health advocates have praised the move as a step toward safeguarding collective well-being.
Citations:
- Burkina Faso Ministry of Health – Public Notice, Oct. 2025
- WHO Africa Tobacco Control Report – 2024
- France24 – “Burkina Tightens Smoking Laws Amid Health Push”
- Africanews – “Burkina Faso Cracks Down on Public Smoking, Vaping”
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