Ezulwini- Smokers could face fines of up to E50 000 for breaching public smoking restrictions under the proposed Tobacco and Related Products Bill of 2026, as the Ministry of Health seeks to tighten tobacco-control enforcement.
The proposed legislation is intended to close gaps in the enforcement of tobacco-control measures, with restrictions on smoking in public places and the marketing of tobacco products among the areas targeted.
Ntombifuthi Ginindza, representing the Ministry of Health, outlined the objectives of the proposed law during consultations with tobacco farmers at Bethel Court in Ezulwini.
The Bill also seeks to address emerging nicotine products and curb marketing strategies directed at young people, as part of efforts to protect them from nicotine addiction.
The consultations form part of a nationwide process through which the ministry is gathering submissions from different stakeholders before the proposed legislation proceeds further through the legislative process.
Ginindza said public participation was important in shaping the proposed law, adding that the consultations were intended to capture different perspectives while prioritizing public health.
“We must ensure that every voice is captured and that the path we take reflects a balanced approach to safeguarding public health while considering all perspectives,” she said.
She urged stakeholders across the country to contribute their views before the Bill advances further through the legislative process.
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