BACKGROUND AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES: Zambia faces significant barriers in implementing effective tobacco control policies, primarily due to weak regulatory frameworks and high levels of tobacco industry interference. The absence of dedicated tobacco control legislation has hindered comprehensive action against tobacco use, which claims approximately 8,000 lives annually. The target populations include youth and vulnerable communities, particularly in urban areas like Lusaka, where tobacco advertising is prevalent near schools. The scale of the challenge is underscored by the presence of numerous points of sale for tobacco products within close proximity to educational institutions, as highlighted by the 2017 ATCA survey, which identified 672 tobacco points of sale within 100 meters of surveyed schools.
INTERVENTION OR RESPONSE: The Zambia Heart and Stroke Foundation initiated a multi-faceted approach that included advocacy for stronger tobacco control legislation, community engagement, and public education campaigns. Key activities involved collaborating with local NGOs to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use, conducting workshops to educate stakeholders on the importance of enforcing existing regulations, and mobilizing community members to participate in monitoring compliance with advertising bans. Additionally, the Foundation worked to promote the enactment of the Control of Tobacco Products and Nicotine Bill, which aims to establish a robust legal framework for tobacco control.
RESULTS AND IMPACT: The initiative led to increased public awareness of tobacco-related health risks and greater community involvement in monitoring compliance with tobacco regulations. Preliminary results indicated a rise in reported violations of advertising bans, suggesting improved community vigilance. However, challenges remained in achieving consistent enforcement of regulations, particularly in areas with high tobacco industry presence. ​
CONCLUSIONS: The public health implications of this initiative are significant, as effective tobacco control measures can reduce smoking rates and associated health risks. Key recommendations include strengthening enforcement mechanisms for existing regulations, enhancing community participation in monitoring efforts, and prioritizing the enactment of comprehensive tobacco control legislation.