Concerns Raised As 9.9% Of Youth In Botswana Use Tobacco

The Minister of Health, Dr Stephen Modise, has revealed that findings from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey conducted in 2025 indicate that 9.9% of youth in Botswana are already using tobacco—a clear warning that urgent action is required to prevent a new generation from becoming addicted.
When delivering a national address during the World No Tobacco Day Commemoration observed on 31 May 2026, Dr Modise said that tobacco use remains a major public health challenge globally, responsible for more than 7 million deaths each year, including about 1.6 million among non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke.
He stated tobacco is one of the leading preventable causes of disease and death worldwide, with an estimated economic cost of USD 1.4 trillion annually.
“In Botswana, non-communicable diseases account for approximately 47% of all deaths, with tobacco use being a significant contributing factor. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey of 2017 reported a prevalence rate of 17.6% among adults, while the STEPS Survey of 2024 shows an increase to 22.2%. This upward trend signals the need for strengthened interventions,” he said.
Modise noted that the tobacco and nicotine industry has evolved its strategies, using flavours, appealing packaging, and targeted digital marketing to make harmful products appear modern and socially acceptable, particularly to young people.
He said that these tactics mask the addictive nature of nicotine and create a false perception of safety, citing that what appears harmless is, in reality, a pathway to long-term dependence and adverse health outcomes.
Modise stated that adolescents are particularly vulnerable to nicotine addiction due to ongoing brain development, especially in areas responsible for decision-making and impulse control. He added that early exposure significantly increases the likelihood of lifelong dependence.
According to him, the continued availability of flavoured products, lifestyle branding, emerging nicotine delivery systems, and the illicit trade of cheap single cigarettes have lowered the barrier to initiation, particularly among young people and low-income communities.
However, Modise highlighted Botswana’s commitment to addressing this challenge, noting that as a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, the country has implemented key measures, including smoke-free public places, restrictions on tobacco advertising, and the introduction of the tobacco levy in 2014 to support prevention and control programmes.
He further explained that the Tobacco Control Act of 2021 has strengthened the legal framework and aligned it with international best practice. Modise also revealed that the government is currently finalising the Regulations to operationalise the Act, which will enhance enforcement and ensure effective implementation.
Modise noted that work is also underway to develop the National Multi-Sectoral Tobacco Control Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2031, which will provide a coordinated approach across sectors, focusing on prevention, enforcement, public education, and sustainable financing.
“In addition, the National Tobacco Cessation Guidelines for 2026 are being developed. These will standardise treatment approaches, strengthen the capacity of health workers, and integrate cessation services into routine healthcare,” he said.
Modise highlighted that illicit trade continues to undermine regulatory efforts, enforcement gaps persist, and the emergence of new nicotine products presents ongoing regulatory and public health challenges.
He said that these challenges require strengthened enforcement, improved coordination across sectors, and sustained public awareness efforts, particularly targeting young people.