In a landmark decision, the Government of Malawi officially enacted the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) on November 16, 2023. This move positions Malawi among 182 other nations committed to the Convention, showcasing the country’s unwavering dedication to addressing the global tobacco epidemic and prioritizing public health and well-being.
Malawi’s ratification of the FCTC, which occurred in August 2023, signifies a critical international treaty aimed at mitigating the severe public health risks associated with tobacco consumption and exposure to tobacco smoke. The decision reflects Malawi’s determination to shield present and future generations from the dire health, social, environmental, and economic consequences linked to tobacco.
Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo, WHO Representative in Malawi, congratulated the country on this historic step and emphasized WHO’s commitment to collaborating closely with the government to achieve the shared goals of the WHO FCTC. Together, they aim to protect public health and work towards a tobacco-free future.
WHO stands ready to provide extensive support to ensure the successful implementation of the Convention in Malawi and welcomes the appointment of a government liaison to work closely with the WHO FCTC Secretariat.
The FCTC, in force since February 2005, establishes an internationally coordinated response to combat the tobacco epidemic. It outlines specific measures for governments to address tobacco use and production, including adopting tax and price measures to reduce consumption, banning tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship, creating smoke-free work and public spaces, placing health warnings on tobacco packages, and combating illicit trade in tobacco products.
Tobacco consumption stands as the single largest preventable cause of death globally, claiming over 7 million lives annually. Of this staggering number, more than 6 million are users or ex-users of tobacco, and approximately 890,000 are non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke. The majority of these deaths, over 80%, occur in low- and middle-income countries.
Beyond its harm to consumers and those exposed to smoke, tobacco cultivation poses risks to the farmers involved. WHO estimates that tobacco farmers may absorb nicotine equivalent to smoking 50 cigarettes a day. Implementation of the FCTC includes working with tobacco farmers on crop replacement and diversification, providing long-term economic, agricultural, and health benefits. Malawi’s commitment to this Convention marks a significant stride towards a healthier and tobacco-free future for its citizens and the global community.
