Rwanda: Health Minister Warns Youth Against Rising Vaping Trend
[New Times] The Minister of Health, Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, has warned border communities in Rubavu District against vaping, noting that it has many risks including health hazards and the possibility of vaping devices being laced with drugs such as cannabis and cocaine.
Rwanda's Minister of Health, Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, has cautioned young people in border communities of Rubavu District against the growing trend of vaping. During a monthly community work event on August 29, the minister highlighted the numerous dangers associated with vaping, including health hazards and the potential for vaping devices to be laced with illicit drugs such as cannabis and cocaine.
He emphasized that vaping has gained popularity among the youth as a trendy alternative to traditional smoking, but stressed that this practice is fraught with hidden health risks. Nsanzimana warned that vaping devices, which often resemble flash drives or pens, can be used to consume dangerous substances alongside flavored liquids.
He stressed that vaping is illegal in Rwanda and poses severe health risks, potentially leading to lung damage, organ failure, immune system suppression, and various forms of cancer. The minister's warning comes as local authorities in Rubavu, situated near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, express concern over the cross-border smuggling of illegal substances.
Deogratias Nzabonimpa, Rubavu Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, urged the community to combat and avoid these products. Augustin Habimana, a former drug addict, shared his personal experience battling addiction to illicit alcohol, illustrating the real-life consequences of substance abuse.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
