A recent evaluation mission in Man, Ivory Coast, has revealed promising strides in enforcing the ban on smoking in enclosed public areas, yet significant resistance remains in outdoor spaces.
The mission, carried out by the National Tobacco Control Program (PNLTA) alongside local health and security authorities, underscores the ongoing challenges in fully implementing anti-smoking measures in the city.
Starting on July 25, 2025, the joint team conducted surprise visits to various establishments across Man, including air-conditioned nightclubs, bars, and open-air maquis. Findings showed that nearly 90% of indoor venues complied with the decree banning smoking, a figure hailed as satisfactory by health officials.
However, compliance dropped markedly in outdoor settings, where enforcement and public adherence remain weak.
Dr. Koffi Nestor, head of the PNLTA’s education and communications department, noted, “In air-conditioned nightclubs and bars, compliance with the decree is nearly 90%.
However, in open spaces, reluctance persists.” He emphasized the need to reinforce awareness that the smoking ban extends to outdoor public places. “What must be understood is that you must not expose others to your smoke. The message must get through,” he insisted.
Echoing this sentiment, Konan Elodie, project manager and health economist for the PNLTA, remarked, “Our observation is that there are still some owners who repeat the offenses, especially in open spaces. This shows that we must continue our efforts and strengthen our actions.”
She added that a detailed report from the mission will be presented to local authorities to guide future interventions.
The initiative is part of a broader project supporting the enforcement of smoking bans in Abidjan and Man, focusing on curbing tobacco-related harm in public spaces. Man’s smoking rate stands at 16%, notably higher than the national average of 12%, according to the 2021 Demographic and Health Survey. Tobacco use contributes to over 5,000 deaths annually in Ivory Coast, a stark reminder of the public health stakes involved.
The mission in Man follows a similar operation earlier this year led by Dr. Ernest Zotoua, which resulted in the confiscation of hookahs and official warnings to offenders. The ongoing collaboration with the Man police’s social brigade and mobile intervention group reflects a determined, multi-sectoral approach to combating smoking in the city’s social venues.
As Ivory Coast intensifies its fight against tobacco use, the recent findings underscore that while progress is evident indoors, much work remains to address persistent violations in open-air spaces, where cultural practices and enforcement gaps continue to challenge public health efforts.
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