Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, has urged young people to avoid vaping, warning that the increasingly fashionable practice can damage their health and expose them to illegal drugs.
Nsanzimana delivered the message during the monthly community work, Umuganda, held in Rubavu Sector on Saturday, August 29.
The engagement formed part of the government’s continuing campaign against illicit drinks, substandard alcohol and dangerous drugs.
The minister said vaping devices, some of which resemble pens or flash drives, had become popular among young people. He warned that beyond flavours and nicotine, the devices could also be used to consume illegal substances such as cannabis and cocaine.
“We want to emphasize: please do not vape. It damages your lungs, vital organs, and immune system, and can lead to several types of cancer,” Nsanzimana said.
He said vaping is illegal in Rwanda and added that some products may contain considerably higher levels of nicotine than conventional cigarettes, increasing their potential danger to users.
The World Health Organization says e-cigarettes produce aerosols that may contain nicotine and other toxic substances. Nicotine is highly addictive, while some chemicals released by the products have been linked to cancer and heart and lung disorders.
Authorities in Rubavu also raised concerns about the smuggling of illegal substances and substandard drinks because of the district’s proximity to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Rubavu Vice Mayor for Economic Development Deogratias Nzabonimpa said the border made it easier for such products to enter the country. He encouraged residents to help prevent their circulation and avoid consuming them.
During the event, Augustin Habimana, who said he had overcome addiction, shared his experience with drug abuse and illicit alcohol.
Habimana said he had once been among the heaviest drinkers in Rubavu and that his addiction had affected his family so severely that his children were unable to attend school.
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