Tobacco.org

• Confusion over Rwanda smoking ban 

Rwanda's health minister has warned people to adhere to his September ban on smoking in public places.

Few smokers have paid attention to the health ministry's decree because it carries no penalty or punishment.

The BBC's Geoffrey Mutagoma says many Rwandans smoke and cigarettes are culturally important as they are one of the gifts given as part of bride price.

The health minister says punishments will be meted out, indicating that MPs intend to pass a law in parliament. . . .

African countries are experiencing the highest increase in the rate of tobacco use amongst developing countries.

Uganda and Tanzania are among the African countries to have banned public smoking in the last two years.

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