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1. Shifting from Tobacco to Sustainable Alternatives: A Strategy for Empowering Zimbabwean Farmers

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
In Zimbabwe, despite the fact that farmers are aware of the health consequences of tobacco and generally support control measures, they continue to grow tobacco. The study showed that farmers are willing to consider alternative crops if they are considered as rewarding as tobacco. However, the choice of the preferred alternative is influenced by their experience of the crop. Government should recognize that the transition from tobacco to alternative crops will take time and require long-term planning and support. This could involve developing a comprehensive strategy for the transition, providing ongoing support to farmers, and regular monitoring and evaluation of progress.
Topic:
Agriculture, Tobacco, Empowerment, and Farmers
Political Geography:
Africa and Zimbabwe

2. Enhancing Tobacco Control in Nigeria: The Impact of Health Warnings on Cigarette Packaging

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
Tobacco consumption, a significant health issue in Nigeria, is associated with numerous deaths and has a substantial economic impact. This study examines the effectiveness of health warnings on cigarette packaging in Nigeria and their potential to reduce tobacco consumption. The findings suggest that transitioning from text-only health warnings to graphic and text warnings can lead to a significant decrease in tobacco-related deaths and diseases, and substantial savings in health costs. The study recommends that Nigeria should aim to achieve 100% compliance with its current regulations and move towards plain packaging with large warnings.
Topic:
Health, Regulation, Economy, Tobacco, and Public Health
Political Geography:
Africa and Nigeria

3. Addressing Implementation Challenges of the Excisable Goods Management System in Kenya: A Pathway to Curtailing Illicit Tobacco Trade

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
The Excisable Goods Management System (EGMS) introduced by the Kenyan government in 2013 to combat the illicit trade in tobacco products is facing enormous challenges that are hampering its implementation. Although in 2014 the EGMS led to a reduction in undeclared production volumes and a potential substitution of illicit tobacco with licit tobacco, the system's effectiveness is limited by factors such as corruption, the complexity of the system and increased costs for small businesses. Based on these findings, the government and relevant agencies should take steps to raise consumer awareness of the EGMS and support small businesses.
Topic:
Corruption, Regulation, Economy, Trade, Tobacco, and Illegal Trade
Political Geography:
Kenya and Africa

4. Addressing the Illicit Tobacco Trade in Senegal: Strategies for Enhancing Public Health and Economic Stability

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
The illicit tobacco trade in Senegal is a significant issue, with an estimated value of over 14 billion FCFA (approx. 30 million USD), representing 0.16% of the country's GDP. This trade undermines public health policies, fiscal revenues, and fuels transnational criminal activities. The study findings highlight the need for improved border security, regular consumer behavior surveys, enhanced inter-agency communication, harmonization of tobacco taxation within the ECOWAS region, and modernization of tobacco seizure data collection.
Topic:
Tobacco, Illegal Trade, Public Health, and Economic Stability
Political Geography:
Africa and Senegal

5. Leveraging Price Elasticity to Curb Tobacco Consumption in Botswana: A Strategy for Healthier Outcomes

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
Tobacco consumption remains a significant public health concern in Botswana, with existing policies failing to effectively reduce its prevalence. The study "Responsiveness of Cigarette Demand to Price Changes in Botswana" reveals that a 10% increase in the price of cigarettes leads to an 8.6% decrease in demand among smokers, providing crucial insights for policy formulation. Based on these findings, it is recommended that policy changes focus on increasing taxes on tobacco products, with the additional revenue invested in health programs aimed at further reducing tobacco use and improving public health outcomes.
Topic:
Tobacco, Public Health, and Price
Political Geography:
Africa and Botswana

6. Optimising Tobacco Taxation in Mauritania: A Strategy for Health Improvement and Revenue Generation

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
The issue of tobacco consumption in Mauritania is of significant public health concern. The current taxation system is ineffective in reducing consumption and maximizing state revenue. The study “Optimal Tobacco Taxation in Mauritania” found that the system has led to significant revenue loss due to under-declared customs values and the application of VAT at the customs level rather than at the point of sale. The introduction of an excise tax based on the quantity of tobacco products imported is recommended. This would help to increase the price of cigarettes, thereby reducing consumption, and would also generate significant revenue for the state.
Topic:
Tax Systems, Tobacco, Public Health, and Revenue
Political Geography:
Africa and Mauritania

7. Addressing the Tobacco Crisis in Nigeria: The Fiscal and Health Benefits of Excise Tax Reform

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
Nigeria is grappling with a rising prevalence of tobacco use, particularly among the youth, leading to significant health and economic burdens. The study "The Economics of Tobacco Control in Nigeria: Modelling the Fiscal and Health Effects of a Tobacco Excise Tax Change in Nigeria" reveals that a substantial upward review of excise tax level on cigarettes alongside a change to the specific tax system yields the most significant gains in public health (measured by reductions in cigarette consumption and smoking prevalence) as well fiscal revenue (measured by increase in excise tax and other government revenues). Therefore, it is recommended that Nigeria implements tobacco control policy interventions that impose higher tax levels and specific tax systems.
Topic:
Reform, Tax Systems, Fiscal Policy, Tobacco, and Public Health
Political Geography:
Africa and Nigeria

8. Unveiling the Socio-Economic Impact of Smoking in Malawi: A Call for Comprehensive Tobacco Control Measures

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
The rising consumption of tobacco products is contributing to a significant increase in tobacco-related deaths and illnesses in the country. The study '' The Socio-economic impact of disease burden due to smoking in Malawi'' reveals that Illness related to smoking results in three impacts for smokers and their families: direct ill health of the smoker and family members; economic burden for the smoker, their family and the community; and mental health effects. It is recommended the government and other stakeholders put in place nationwide initiatives aimed at preventing smoking initiation, and those aimed at sensitizing and educating the general public about the risks associated with tobacco use.
Topic:
Regulation, Tobacco, Public Health, and Socioeconomics
Political Geography:
Africa and Malawi

9. Technology needs for climate adaptation in agriculture: Evidence from Africa

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
The adoption of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a pivotal role in driving innovation to combat climate change in African agriculture. This policy brief underscores key factors influencing ICT adoption in agriculture, with a special emphasis on affordability, cost-effectiveness, and clear economic benefits. Access to digital farming solutions and ICT tools is rapidly spreading across the continent, particularly in providing farmers with essential weather information, market access, and improved agricultural practices. Despite these promising developments, significant challenges such as high data costs, limited digital literacy, and gender-based digital disparities must be addressed to ensure inclusivity in technological access. Furthermore, the knowledge product demonstrates the critical role of climate-resilient crop varieties and adaptable livestock breeds in agricultural technological innovation. This includes drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, and diseaseresistant crops, as well as livestock breeds suited for changing environmental conditions. Water management and irrigation technologies, such as precision agriculture and data analytics, are critical to optimizing resource use, increasing efficiency, and empowering women in agriculture. This document emphasizes the importance of ICT in closing technological gaps, improving weather monitoring, promoting resilient crops and livestock, and fostering sustainable practices across African agricultural systems. A gender-responsive approach to technological innovation is essential for ensuring equitable participation and closing existing gaps. Finally, the knowledge product emphasizes the importance of policy support, capacity development, and public-private partnerships in effectively integrating ICT into agriculture. By harnessing the potential of ICT while prioritizing gender-responsive solutions, Africa can successfully adapt to climate change, empower its farming communities, foster sustainable development, unlock economic opportunities, provide access to vital information, and scale up adaptation efforts. Ultimately, technological innovation through ICT is critical to building climate resilience and securing a prosperous and sustainable future for Africa.
Topic:
Agriculture, Climate Change, Science and Technology, Communications, Innovation, and Adaptation
Political Geography:
Africa

10. Coordination challenges and opportunities for climate adaptation in African agriculture

Author:
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Publication Date:
01-2023
Content Type:
Policy Brief
Institution:
The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
Abstract:
Climate change poses a major global threat, particularly for agriculture, and this knowledge product delves into the context of climate adaptation in African agriculture. It emphasizes the critical role of climate adaptation in safeguarding the sustainability of food systems and rural communities. African agriculture, predominantly comprised of smallholder farmers, bears the brunt of climate change’s adverse impacts, including erratic rainfall, droughts, and heatwaves, which disrupt crop yields and food availability. Climate adaptation is indispensable to ensure food security and resilient livelihoods. Substantial investments are now being directed towards enhancing climate adaptation capacities across the continent. Collaborative efforts involving governments, NGOs, donors, and local communities aim to promote climate-smart agriculture, improve water management, and enhance access to climate information services. Nevertheless, coordination challenges persist, impeding the effectiveness of adaptation endeavors. Africa’s diverse geography, climates, and socioeconomic conditions make coordination of climate interventions and policy at the international, regional, national, and local levels a complex task. In the Sahel, climate adaptation coordination encounters challenges due to varying priorities and capacities among nations. Aligning international climate policies with regional and national strategies remains a daunting task. Conversely, the Southern African region grapples with the impacts of extreme weather events on agriculture, such as floods and cyclones, necessitating coordinated disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Ethiopia’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP) is a model of effective multi-stakeholder collaboration. Government agencies, civil society, research institutions, and local communities collaborate to increase adaptive capacity, focusing on locally tailored solutions derived from farmers’ specific needs and indigenous knowledge. Finally, this policy brief illuminates climate adaptation in African agriculture, recognizing the continent’s vulnerability and the need for coordinated action. It shares valuable insights from diverse regions and initiatives, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities of coordinating climate adaptation. Collaboration, knowledge sharing, and coordinated efforts hold the key to ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for African agriculture in a changing climate.
Topic:
Agriculture, Climate Change, Sustainability, Resilience, and Adaptation
Political Geography:
Africa