Reopening of shops and places of conviviality with smoking areas in South Africa

In order to give itself the means to slow down the progression of the COVID-19 virus as much as possible and to avoid the worsening of symptoms in patients who smoke, the South African government had, in April 2020, taken the decision to completely ban the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products in the country.[1]. Recently, to revive economic activity and tourism in the city of Durban, businesses as well as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues have been allowed to reopen.[2] provided that strict health regulations and protocols are respected.

Establishment of smoking areas under the South African Smoking Ban Act

Following the announcement, Suncoast casinos, hotels and entertainment venues in Durban quickly informed their subscribers of their upcoming reopening and specified, via text message, the establishment of designated smoking areas.[3]

According to Lungi Mtshali, the spokesperson for the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, only the sale of cigarettes is prohibited in South Africa, not the consumption of tobacco. However, creating smoking areas, when smoking in places of conviviality has been banned since 1993 seems questionable.

South Africa, put to the test by the pandemic

Beyond its legal compliance or non-compliance, this decision remains incompatible with the South African government's efforts to slow the progression of the pandemic. Currently, South Africa remains the African country most affected by the health crisis. Since March, it has recorded nearly 190,000 cases and the authorities fear that this figure will explode again in the coming weeks.[4]

As stated by the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)[5] Smoking is an aggravating factor in coronavirus symptoms, potentially leading to overcrowding in healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, in places open to the public, the virus which attaches itself to tobacco smoke particles can be inhaled or touched (on furniture, handles, etc.) by customers or employees.[6]

Smoking areas therefore constitute a real and significant risk of contamination and, as such, are in complete contradiction with government initiatives.

©Tobacco Free Generation

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[1] CNCT, In South Africa, cigarette companies oppose COVID-19 measures, Tobacco-Free Generation (April 27, 2020 - consulted on July 8, 2020). [2] SEHOSSOLO Cédric Lyonnel, South Africa reopens public spaces, www.africanews.com (July 5, 2020 - consulted on July 8, 2020). [3] https://www.iol.co.za/sunday-tribune/news/smoking-allowed-at-durban-casinos-despite-sale-ban-50449274[4] MOUSSET Laura, Covid-19 in South Africa: surge in infections, army as reinforcements, www.france24.com (July 6, 2020 - consulted July 8, 2020). [5] European Society of Cardiology, First comparison of dangers of tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes and waterpipes, www.medicalxpress.com (June 26, 2020 - accessed July 8, 2020). [6] DNF, Deconfinement: DNF recommends safety measures adapted to the pandemic crisis to cafe and restaurant owners, Tobacco-Free Generation (June 2, 2020 - accessed July 8, 2020).DNF - For a Zero Tobacco World | ML