Chipangali Council chair, Nkhoma, rejects tobacco control bill, says it creates livelihood for over 500,000 people (video)

Chipangali Council Chairperson, Maxson Nkhoma, has rejected the proposed Tobacco Control Bill of 2025, warning that it could negatively impact farmers and the broader economy.

Nkhoma criticized the lack of consultations with key stakeholders, noting that 65 percent of Zambia’s tobacco farmers—40 percent of whom are from Eastern Province—depend on the crop for their livelihoods.

In a statement issued in Chipangali District on Thursday, he acknowledged the health concerns associated with tobacco but emphasized its economic importance as one of Zambia’s most valuable agricultural exports.

He urged lawmakers to adopt balanced regulatory measures instead of policies that could jeopardize farmers’ incomes.

“Tobacco is one of Zambia’s top agricultural exports, accounting for approximately 20 percent of export earnings,” Nkhoma said.

He noted that in December 2024 alone, tobacco contributed 18 percent of Zambia’s agricultural exports, despite an overall decline in agricultural revenue.

The industry, he said, contributed approximately 3.4 percent to Zambia’s GDP and generates over K500 million annually in taxes, supporting government funding for essential social services.

Nkhoma further warned that enacting the bill in its current form could destabilize an industry supporting over 190,000 people directly and half a million livelihoods indirectly, particularly in rural areas.

He called for broader stakeholder engagement to ensure inclusive policymaking, urging authorities to balance health concerns with economic realities and explore alternative regulatory approaches that preserve jobs while addressing public health goals.

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