A recent enforcement action has resulted in 19 entertainment venues and restaurants across Greater Accra and the Central Region being fined a total of GH¢475,000 for breaching the smoke-free regulations.
This enforcement action targeted various establishments, including pubs, nightclubs, and recreational centers, each receiving a fine of GH¢25,000 for disregarding the law.
The enforcement operation, which took place over three nights, was conducted by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service.
The inspections covered 51 venues in areas such as Tema, Accra, and Kasoa.
The smoke-free law aims to safeguard public health by banning smoking in indoor public spaces, workplaces, public transport, and recreational areas to shield non-smokers from the dangers of secondhand smoke.
Dr. Olivia Agyekumwaa Boateng, Director of Tobacco and Substance Abuse at the FDA, reported that 19 establishments were caught on camera violating this law.
Violators are subject to substantial penalties under the Public Health Act 2012, which stipulates fines up to GH¢9,000 or imprisonment for up to three years.
For ongoing infractions, additional daily fines may be imposed.
The recent administrative fines of GH¢25,000 are part of a broader effort to enforce compliance.
“A person who contravenes any part of the Public Health Act 2012, part six, is liable to a fine more than 750 penalty units (fine GH¢9000) or a term of imprisonment of not more than three years. In the case of a continuing offence, additional fine of 10 penalty units applies for each day during which the offence continuous. An administrative charge of GH¢25,000 as per fees and charges,” she added.
Dr. Boateng highlighted the serious health risks associated with secondhand smoke, which can lead to respiratory infections, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and sudden infant death syndrome.
“Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause various health issues, including respiratory infections, asthma, heart diseases, stroke, lung cancer and sudden infant syndrome among others,” she added.
To address these issues, the FDA has launched a year-long initiative to bolster awareness and enforcement of smoke-free policies across the country.
This includes developing educational materials in local languages and engaging stakeholders such as hoteliers and the Ghana Tourism Authority.
The FDA’s efforts are supported by research indicating that tobacco-related illnesses result in over 6,700 deaths annually in Ghana, contributing to 3% of the nation’s total mortality.
Dr. Boateng urged smokers to quit and called on the public to report violations to help improve public health safety.
The FDA remains committed to enforcing these regulations and enhancing the health environment throughout the nation.