Despite the implementation of anti-tobacco laws and regulations, including ratification of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, smoking prevalence in Togo remains high. A study shows that the mixed taxation system leads to an increase in the final consumption price of the premium and economy segments of tobacco, an increase in excise tax revenue and a decrease in the quantity of cigarettes consumed and industry revenue, compared with the current "ad valorem" tax. Based on these results, the application of a mixed excise tax system would provide better results in terms of tobacco control.
Topic:
Reform, Tax Systems, Tobacco, Public Health, and Revenue
Tobacco consumption in Uganda, while showing a decline, continues to pose a significant public health challenge. The findings of this study suggest that significant increases in excise tax could lead to substantial reductions in tobacco consumption, thereby alleviating the associated health burden. Regular and consistent tax increases, taking into account factors such as income and inflation, are recommended to effectively curb tobacco use.
Topic:
Tax Systems, Tobacco, Public Health, and Consumption
The consumption of tobacco in Togo has significant economic and health implications, with a particular impact on low and middle-income households in rural areas. The study “Effet d'éviction de la consommation du tabac sur les dépenses de ménage au Togo” reveals that tobacco expenditure displaces essential household spending on housing, cooking energy, hygiene, education, and entertainment. The study recommends targeting anti-smoking initiatives towards low- and middle-income rural households, implementing a mixed taxation system for tobacco products, strengthening measures against illicit tobacco trade, and improving the availability of recent, detailed statistics on tobacco and its derivative products for informed policy decisions.
Topic:
Economy, Tobacco, Public Health, Household, and Spending
This policy brief emphasizes the critical importance of incorporating gender and social equity considerations into climate adaptation programming within Africa’s agriculture sector. Climate change is already exerting a significant impact, but its effects are far from uniform. Marginalized communities, notably women and girls, bear a disproportionate burden due to pre-existing social, economic, and cultural disparities. The knowledge brief extensively explores the vulnerabilities and roles of women and marginalized groups, shedding light on the adverse effects of climate change on their lives. It underscores the importance of adopting gender-responsive and socially equitable approaches to effectively mitigate these effects. Furthermore, the analysis showcases a curated selection of case studies, each exemplifying initiatives that have made significant progress in addressing these complex challenges. These initiatives are notable for their dedication to gender mainstreaming, women’s empowerment, and the implementation of gender-sensitive climate adaptation interventions. These case studies offer invaluable insights for replication and scaling up across the continent. Key lessons include promoting gender-transformative adaptation, providing training and technical assistance, enhancing women’s participation in policy development, and improving data collection and analysis. In conclusion, this knowledge product serves issues a compelling call to incorporate gender and social equity considerations into climate adaptation policies and practices, particularly in Africa’s agriculture sector. It contributes to the development of a more resilient and equitable response to climate change in African agriculture, aligning with global sustainability goals. This approach ensures a more just and prosperous future by championing inclusivity and sustainability for all.
Topic:
Agriculture, Climate Change, Adaptation, Equity, and Gender
The rapid increase in the consumption of new and emerging tobacco and nicotine products (NETNPs) in Zambia, predominantly among young, unmarried males, poses significant public health concerns. The study “Consumption of New and Emerging Tobacco and Nicotine Products in Zambia: Implications for Policy” found that many consumers of new and emerging tobacco and nicotine products believe these products are less harmful than traditional tobacco products. The study recommends tobacco control awareness campaigns, and the formulation of effective policy on controlled consumption of NETNPs.