A joint operation conducted over five days by the Ministry of Health, Police, and local authorities in various bars across Jinja City has resulted in the arrest of 14 individuals engaged in shisha smoking. The operation, characterized by surprise night raids, aimed to enforce the Tobacco Control Act (2015), which prohibits the importation and use of shisha products in Uganda due to health concerns.
Mr. Kenneth Nandala, the Jinja South Division Health Inspector, reported the recovery of five shisha pots, shisha pipes, and tins of shisha-making ingredients during the operation. The confiscated items will serve as exhibits during the prosecution of those involved in the illegal business. Among the arrested suspects were three bar managers and 11 customers found smoking shisha.
Ms. Christine Ahimbisibwe, the Programme Officer for the Tobacco Control Programme at the Ministry of Health, led the surprise raids on bars, citing the continued prevalence of shisha smoking despite its ban. The Tobacco Control Act imposes fines and imprisonment for individuals who contravene the law, with a special focus on preventing the importation and local production of shisha pots.
Ms. Ahimbisibwe emphasized the health risks associated with shisha smoking, stating that the government spent significant amounts on each person admitted to Mulago Hospital for diseases resulting from shisha use. She highlighted the importance of eliminating the existence of locally-made shisha pots, despite efforts by Uganda Revenue Authority to impound imported shisha pots at the border.
While some individuals argue that shisha use does not harm others, the Ministry of Health warns that shisha smokers face similar health risks to those smoking conventional cigarettes. Shisha contains nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, and heavy metals, posing threats such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory issues, cancer, and complications during pregnancy.
Shisha, also known as a water pipe, hookah, or Nargile, traditionally contains cigarette tobacco and is associated with adverse health effects. Research by the World Health Organisation suggests that an hour-long shisha session can be equivalent to smoking up to 200 cigarettes.
