Namibia Plans Tax Reforms to Combat Substance Abuse
Namibia's Initiative Against Substance Abuse
Windhoek, July 14: Namibia is exploring significant tax reforms on tobacco and alcohol products as part of efforts to address increasing substance abuse and protect public health, announced Minister of Health and Social Services, Esperance Luvindao, on Monday.
During the opening of a four-day workshop focused on tobacco and alcohol control policies in Windhoek, Luvindao emphasized the country's commitment to the World Health Organization's (WHO) MPOWER policy package. This comprehensive strategy aims to monitor tobacco use, protect individuals from secondhand smoke, provide cessation support, raise awareness about health risks, enforce advertising restrictions, and increase taxes on tobacco products.
Namibia implemented the Tobacco Product Control Act in 2010, followed by regulations in 2014. Luvindao noted that the country has made significant strides in tobacco control, guided by the WHO MPOWER Strategy.
She pointed out that the detrimental effects of tobacco and alcohol use continue to strain the healthcare system and contribute to preventable illnesses and fatalities.
"It is evident that additional deterrent measures, especially tax reforms, are necessary to reduce the consumption of these products," she stated.
With support from the WHO, the Ministry of Health and Social Services is developing a national strategic plan and reviewing the Tobacco Act to include regulations for new and emerging tobacco and nicotine products, such as hookahs, e-cigarettes, and vapes.
"We are also continuously updating our national alcohol policies to tackle alcohol abuse in the nation," she added.
WHO Representative Richard Banda, speaking on his behalf, highlighted that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for approximately 41 percent of all deaths in Namibia.
"Tobacco use and alcohol consumption are significant risk factors for the development of NCDs," he remarked.
Banda noted that the workshop is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing tobacco control measures and strategies to mitigate harmful alcohol use, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for the population.
Recent data from 2022 indicates alarming levels of alcohol consumption in Namibia, with an average of 12 liters of pure alcohol consumed per capita annually by individuals aged 15 and older, in stark contrast to the regional average of 3.5 liters and the global average of 5.0 liters.
"We must take decisive action to safeguard health by addressing existing policy gaps, enhancing enforcement, and investing in effective strategies like MPOWER and SAFER measures," Banda concluded.
SAFER represents five of the most effective interventions designed to reduce alcohol-related harm.