Despite robust legislation enacted over fifteen years ago, public smoking continues largely unchecked across Chad, especially within its bustling capital, N’Djamena. Enforcement remains notably lax.
A brief stroll through N’Djamena vividly illustrates the stark contrast between written law and daily reality. In prominent marketplaces like the Central Market or Dembé, vendors and shoppers openly light up amidst dense crowds. Cigarette smoke often mingles with dust and the aromas of various foodstuffs.
« We’ve grown accustomed to cigarette smoke here; it’s something we inhale every single day, » shared Pélagie, a fish vendor. « Decisions have been made, yet nobody adheres to them. It’s truly unacceptable. »
Christian added, « Other nations designate specific smoking areas, but regrettably, in Chad, we’re all mixed together. People even smoke inside schools and hospitals. The government absolutely must take responsibility. »
Like Pélagie and Christian, countless Chadians involuntarily become passive smokers in bars, restaurants, and even taxis. One individual recounted, « I suffer from asthma and allergies to both cigarette and shisha smoke. This is why I’ve stopped visiting restaurants; no one there respects the rules. »
Exposure to secondhand smoke significantly elevates the risk of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory ailments for non-smokers. Children and expectant mothers face particular vulnerability. Environmentally, discarded cigarette butts litter the streets, contributing to pollution and posing a fire hazard.
Chad’s Law No. 010/PR/2010, enacted on June 10, 2010, specifically targeting tobacco control, explicitly bans smoking in all public spaces, enclosed workplaces, and public transportation. This legislation also extends protection to pregnant women and minors, stipulating penalties for non-compliance.
Subsequent implementation decrees, such as Decree No. 1522/PR/MSP/2019, further detailed the enforcement mechanisms. Both the Ministry of Public Health and the N’Djamena city council conducted public awareness campaigns, and an anti-tobacco brigade was even established. Nevertheless, over a decade later, enforcing this particular law remains one of Chad’s most enduring challenges.
