Malawi’s continued reliance on tobacco farming despite persistent poverty has drawn fresh concern from Nelson Zakeyu, Executive Director of Drug Fight Malawi, who says the country must rethink both its economic dependence on tobacco and its public health approach.
Speaking during a media training session held in Lilongwe, Zakeyu questioned why Malawi remains among the world’s top tobacco producers while still struggling with widespread poverty, arguing that the benefits of the crop have not significantly improved rural livelihoods.
He said the situation raises serious concerns about the country’s development path, especially given that many smallholder farmers continue to face economic hardship despite long-term involvement in tobacco production.
Zakeyu also warned about the health consequences of tobacco use, saying it remains a major contributor to preventable diseases affecting communities across the country.
He cited cancers and other non-communicable diseases as key risks linked to tobacco consumption, noting that these conditions continue to strain households and the national health system.
He referenced the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), which provides global guidelines aimed at reducing tobacco use through prevention, awareness, and stronger regulatory measures.
Zakeyu urged stronger implementation of these guidelines alongside increased public education and media engagement, saying Malawi must balance economic interests with protecting public health.
