Passive smoking in N’Djamena: when the law fails to protect public health

A stringent anti-smoking law passed over fifteen years ago has done little to curb public tobacco use in Chad, particularly in its bustling capital, N’Djamena.

In N’Djamena, the disconnect between legislation and daily life is impossible to miss. Walk through the Central Market or Dembé, and you’ll find vendors and customers openly smoking amidst crowds. The air fills with cigarette smoke, mingling with dust and the scent of food.

« We’re so used to the smoke here that we barely notice it anymore. Decisions have been made, but no one follows them. It’s truly unacceptable », shares Pélagie, a fish vendor who spends her days surrounded by the haze.

Christian, a local resident, echoes her frustration: « In many countries, smoking areas are clearly designated, but here in Chad, everyone is exposed. Even schools and hospitals have smokers. The government must act. »

Non-smokers in N’Djamena bear the brunt of this disregard for health regulations. Bars, restaurants, and taxis are among the worst offenders. « I suffer from asthma and am allergic to both cigarette and shisha smoke. That’s why I stopped visiting restaurants altogether—no one complies with the rules. »

Passive smoking significantly raises the risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses for bystanders. Vulnerable groups, such as children and pregnant women, face the greatest threats. Beyond health concerns, discarded cigarette butts litter streets, contributing to pollution and fire hazards.

The 2010 law n° 010/PR explicitly bans smoking in all public spaces, enclosed workplaces, and public transport. It also safeguards pregnant women and minors, with penalties outlined for violations. Subsequent decrees, including decree n° 1522/PR/MSP/2019, further clarified enforcement mechanisms. Health authorities and N’Djamena’s city council have launched awareness campaigns, even establishing an anti-tobacco brigade. Yet, despite these efforts, enforcement remains woefully inadequate over a decade later.