Ethiopian city implements tobacco smoking ban

Mekelle, the capital of Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, has become the first Ethiopian city to ban tobacco smoking in public places, according to a story in The Sudan Tribune.

A bill banning smoking was passed unanimously last year by Ethiopian lawmakers and Mekelle has become the first city to implement the bill’s regulations.

The new law restricts smoking in enclosed public places, such as bars and restaurants, but also in open spaces, including sports venues, schools, hospitals, health centres, and other areas where cultural and religious events take place.

The law requires all public and private bodies to post ‘No Smoking’ signs on their premises and forbids the media from advertising or promoting tobacco products.

According to sources in Mekelle, individuals caught violating the regulations will be fined $50, while bar owners who fail to enforce the new laws will face a $150 fine.