In the bustling corridors of Geneva’s international health conferences, a spirited debate unfolds—one that could shape the future of global health policy and millions of lives. At the heart of this clash are advocates for tobacco harm reduction, determined to present science-backed solutions that could help smokers quit and save lives. Brent Stafford, a passionate […]
Experts at the Good COP 2.0 currently underway observes that the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) refusal to embrace tobacco harm reduction (THR) continues to produce policy failures in countries with limited healthcare infrastructure. In its 3rd day, the Good COP 2.0 evaluated regional evidence that exposes the WHO’s failures and offers a sweeping look at […]
In Lilongwe’s crowded neighbourhoods, some families see tap water just once a month – and only in the dead of night. These scenes of scarcity underscore a water crisis the government hopes to end with a mega-infrastructure initiative: the Salima–Lilongwe Water Supply Project. In a nation grappling with droughts, cholera outbreaks and economic strain, the […]
Roger Bate, researcher on global health, pharmaceuticals and regulatory governance contends that World Health Organisation’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) began with noble ambitions — “to coordinate a global response to the tobacco epidemic through evidence-based, transparent cooperation.” And under early leadership, it promised inclusivity and scientific rigor but over two decades later, […]
During the second day of Good Conference of the Parties 2.0 currently underway, experts have challenged the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) approach to tobacco harm reduction and called for more flexible reform approach. The Good COP 2.0 sets the tone for a week of spirited and detailed discussion about evidence-based tobacco harm reduction and reform […]
The Taxpayers Protection Alliance (TPA) – a non-profit advocacy group that works to reduce government spending and taxation – has challenged the status quo of global tobacco control policies, warning that the days of misinformation about Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) are over. This is happening in the heart of Geneva, where an international gathering is challenging the status […]
Global public health expert, Professor Derek Yach, has disapproved of decisions by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to exclude players in the tobacco industry at its engagements and conferences, arguing the tendency is robbing public health scientists the opportunity to get high-quality research. WHO recently determined that it is not necessary and is fundamentally inappropriate […]
As the 11th Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) approaches, calls for reform are growing louder. Independent scientists, journalists, civil society groups, and the tobacco industry are all demanding a seat at the table. The conference, set for November in Geneva, is expected to reinforce restrictions in line […]
For African leaders to promote Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) strategies, they first and foremost must have a good understanding of tobacco control relative to their local context so that they can be able to effectively contribute to strategy discussions. This has been emphasised by THR-Malawi Programmes Coordinator, Sahan Lungu in an exclusive interview, adding that […]
Countries that rely on tobacco farming as a source of foreign exchange such as Malawi, Zimbabwe and Tanzania, are being advised to offer farmers training, funding and market access to incentivise them to diversify into other crops or industries. This has been observed by economic expert, Hanleck Mhango, after observing that tobacco farmers are at […]
“The unique challenges faced by African countries to effectively implement tobacco control policies and programmes include limited resource and structural capacity,” observes Sahan Lungu, an expert in global Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) initiatives. Lungu, who is THR-Malawi Programmes Coordinator, contends that as a result of these challenges, “most African countries lack robust smoking cessation programmes […]
According to recent analysis from several entities including the World Health Organisation (WHO), there are indications that the highest increase in cancer cases will be in lower-income countries in the next few years, a public health crisis that will be too costly to handle. The WHO projects that global cancer cases and deaths will rise […]
Philip Morris International (PMI) has said that the credibility issue on Harm Reduction research done or funded by the industry is why we must be particularly mindful to ensure that we apply the right science through robust methodologies and best practices on the market. Overtime, the Harm Reduction research funded by the tobacco industry has […]
When it comes to football, Africa has produced some of the most iconic players the sport has ever seen. From their dazzling skill on the pitch to their influence off it, these stars have inspired generations across the globe. While the continent has given us countless names, a select few stand out as true legends […]
Some of the potential consequences due to prohibitions, as anti-smoking and drug abuse campaigns, can be significant and far-reaching on public health, which include increased illicit use, high risks of overdose and death, mental health impacts, spread of infectious diseases, reduced access to treatment and increased violence and crime. According to research that has been […]
The Philip Morris International (PMI) Technovation in Dubai ended with industry players emphasising the need to address challenges around access to Tobacco Harm Reduction products, which would lead to higher consumption of safer smoking alternatives and lower consumption of cigarettes, especially in the global south. Technovation is an initiative that discusses the development of smoke-free […]
Malawi votes on 16th September 2025 while spiraling deeper into an economic abyss, its people are confronted with a complex political choice. Malawi is on her knees, battered by unsustainable debt, crippling foreign exchange shortages, daily essential commodities price rises, rampant food insecurity, and an inflation rate that devours the livelihoods of its poorest citizens. […]
In a powerful demonstration of homegrown resilience, Malawian business magnate Dr. Thom Mpinganjira and his financial powerhouse, FDH Bank Plc, are being celebrated for a series of landmark achievements that defy the nation’s economic headwinds. The bank’s record-breaking performance and ambitious regional expansion have not only solidified its market leadership but have also propelled its […]