ALMOST A YEAR after a law banning public smoking was passed, its implementation remains a challenge. “I have been to restaurants before and seen people smoke freely despite existence of this law,” noted Emmanuel Ndambaye, resident of Remera, Gasabo District. The law requires public places to designate a smoking area, with clear notices displayed in Kinyarwanda, English and French. It also provides for premise owners or any person offended by a smoker anywhere other than in a designated smoking area to request the offender to stop or call in security personnel. Article 428 of the penal code states that any person who unlawfully smokes in public and in any other place where many people gather shall be liable to a fine of between Rwf10,000 to Rwf50,000. Marie Aimee Muhimpundu, the head of non-communicable diseases (NCD’s) at the health ministry faults the public for not reporting some of these cases. “Non smokers need to understand their right of not getting exposed to smoke so that they do not just look on as their rights are violated,” Muhimpundu said. Dr Frederick Fundi Gatare, the medical director of Rutongo Hospital in Rulindo District emphasised the need to intensify sensitisation about the law. “Not everyone knows about this law so there have to be repeated awareness campaigns if it is to take real effect,” Gatare said. He, however, acknowledged that some people are aware of the existence of the law but just ignore it. A mini survey by The New Times in Kigali indicates that a number of hangouts are yet to designate places for smoking though most bar patrons did not know that it is mandatory. But Justine Uwitwaye, a resident of Muhima, Nyarugenge District acknowledges that though there are challenges, the law is starting to take effect. “I have noticed that some hangouts have designated sections to cater for smokers. So I believe other places will do the same with time,” Uwitwaye said. Modeste Mbabazi, the Police spokesperson for Central Kigali encouraged resident’s to report such cases. “So far no one has come to us with such a complaint, otherwise we would be glad to help,” Mbabazi said. In order to reduce tobacco consumption, the World Health Organisation (WHO) calls on countries to raise taxes on tobacco to discourage users from smoking and prevent other people from becoming addicted to tobacco. “Raising taxes on tobacco is the most effective way to reduce its use and save lives,” said Dr Margaret Chan, the WHO director-general in a message in line with the “World No Tobacco Day” last week.
