Strengthening Tobacco Control in Eswatini: ATIM Facilitates Capacity-Building Workshop
The Ministry of Health Eswatini, a beneficiary of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) 2030 Project, continues to advance its tobacco control efforts by leveraging the framework to accelerate the implementation of the Convention. Recognizing the urgent need for a whole-of-government approach to tackle the tobacco epidemic, the Ministry established the multisectoral National Coordinating Mechanism (NCM) for Tobacco Control. This body brings together key stakeholders from government ministries, academia, and civil society organizations.
To build capacity for effective tobacco industry monitoring and advocacy, a three-day residential workshop was held at Bethel Court Hotel, Ezulwini from 20th -22nd May 2025. The workshop was organised in collaboration with the Africa Centre for Tobacco Industry Monitoring and Policy Research (ATIM), with support from regional and international partners.
The training was led by ATIM Director, Professor Lekan Ayo-Yusuf, and featured expert facilitators from Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), the National Council Against Smoking, and the University of Botswana amongst others. Their combined expertise provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in tobacco control across Africa.
Participants engaged in interactive sessions and practical exercises covering a range of critical topics, including:
- Tobacco Use Trends and the Industry’s Harm Reduction Agenda in Africa
- The Legal Perspective of Tobacco Industry Monitoring and Accountability
- Practical Approaches to Monitoring and Countering Tobacco Industry Interference in Africa
- Tobacco Taxation and Illicit Trade in Africa
- Utilization of the BETA Online Platform, ATIM App, and TIM Team Engagements
This workshop marks a significant step towards strengthening Eswatini’s tobacco control efforts. By fostering collaboration among government, academia, and civil society, and by equipping stakeholders with the latest tools and strategies, Eswatini is well-positioned to accelerate the implementation of the WHO FCTC and protect public health.