By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 11 January 2026 - The House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia on Monday approved the ratification of an international tobacco control treaty, a move officials say is a critical step toward curbing smoking-related health risks in the Horn of Africa nation.
The Bill to adopt the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) was passed during the 29th sitting of the house's 7th session. The proceedings were presided over by the Second Deputy Speaker of the House of the People, Abdullahi Omar Abshirow.
The measure saw 139 lawmakers vote in favour, while three abstained and no members voted against the motion.
Following the session, Somalia’s Minister of Health and Human Services, Ali Haji Adam, praised the legislature for prioritizing the nation's long-term wellbeing.
"I am very grateful to you for the approval and passage of this tobacco control charter, which is an international agreement," Adam told the assembly. "The implementation of this pact is a step forward in improving the health of our society and preventing the harms resulting from tobacco and related products."
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The treaty provides a comprehensive legal framework for the government to restrict tobacco advertising, mandate health warnings on packaging, and protect the public from second-hand smoke in shared spaces.
It also includes provisions to combat the illicit trade of tobacco products, which remains a challenge in the region.
The legislation will now be submitted to the Upper House of Parliament for further consideration. Upon approval by the Upper House, it will be forwarded to the President for his signature to be enacted into law.
