Passive smoking in N’Djamena: gap between law and enforcement widens

persistent exposure to secondhand smoke despite anti-tobacco legislation

Fifteen years after Chad enacted strict anti-smoking laws, enforcement remains weak in N’Djamena, where public smoking continues unabated. The capital’s crowded markets, such as the Central Market and Dembé, frequently show glaring disregard for regulations, with vendors and customers lighting cigarettes amid dense crowds and choking dust clouds.

Pélagie, a fish vendor, expressed frustration over the ongoing situation. « We’ve grown accustomed to breathing smoke every day. Officials have passed laws, but nobody follows them. It’s simply unacceptable. »

Christian, another resident, pointed to inconsistencies with neighboring countries. « In other nations, designated smoking areas exist, but in Chad, we’re all exposed together. Even schools and hospitals see people smoking. The government must act decisively. »

health risks and environmental impact

Secondhand smoke poses serious health threats, increasing risks of cancer, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Vulnerable groups—children and pregnant women—are especially at risk. Environmental damage is another concern, as cigarette butts litter streets, polluting soil and waterways while posing fire hazards.

Despite these dangers, enforcement remains lax. An asthmatic resident shared, « I quit visiting restaurants because nobody respects smoke-free rules. Even shisha smoke triggers my allergies. »

legal framework exists but lacks teeth

The 2010 Tobacco Control Act (Law No. 010/PR/2010) explicitly bans smoking in public spaces, workplaces and public transport. It also protects pregnant women and minors while setting penalties. Subsequent decrees, including Decree No. 1522/PR/MSP/2019, outlined enforcement measures, and awareness campaigns were launched by health authorities and N’Djamena’s local government. A dedicated anti-tobacco brigade was even established.

Yet, more than a decade later, compliance remains dismally low. The gap between policy and practice persists, leaving citizens exposed to avoidable health risks.