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The Journey from the Farm to the Lungs: Who Gains from Tobacco in Africa?
As part of the activities to mark the launch of the Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa on November 1st
2011, a public lecture delivered by Professor Peter Odhiambo, Chairman Kenya Tobacco Control Board
was delivered at Serena Hotel in Kampala. The lecture was attended by hundreds of people from diverse
backgrounds, many of who had participated in the No-Tobacco Walk from Mulago to Serena Hotel.
Professor Odhiambo said that in the campaign against tobacco, it is very important to appreciate the
fact that tobacco is a cash crop that brings in money to some people. He however hastened to add that
although there is a lot of money in tobacco on the industry side, on the side of the farmers and
consumers, there is no wealth, no health and no food security.
He said in a single cigarette stick, there are 4,000-4,700 harmful chemicals, including DDT and Polonium
210- one of the major cancer-causing chemicals.
Professor Odhiambo pointed out that many African governments are in denial regarding the harm
inflicted by tobacco companies on the health of the people, and therefore urged those involved in the
anti-tobacco campaign to be courageous and steadfast in this work.
He urged the Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa not to become complacent and work towards
becoming a Centre of Excellence and serve all Africa diligently and proactively.
Anti-Tobacco Activists arriving at Serena Hotel for the public lecture after the No-Tobacco Walk
Milly Nattimba
MakCHS Communications Officer