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Stronger partnerships, coordinated advocacy and effective enforcement are emerging as important requirements in efforts to strengthen tobacco control in Botswana as efforts to implement regulations under the Tobacco Control Act, 2021 get underway.

The workshop, convened by the Anti-Tobacco Network (ATN) on the 28th of October 2026 in Gaborone, brought together representatives from various sectors including the University of Botswana (UB), to examine the stakeholder landscape and identify opportunities for stronger coordination in tobacco control. Discussions focused on identifying influential actors, assessing their roles and capacity and building strategic partnerships to mobilise support for the implementation of the regulations.

The urgency of the efforts was informed by ATN’s engagement with 17 of Botswana’s 31 councils. Consultations with local leaders highlighted the need for stronger tobacco control measures particularly to protect children and young people from tobacco-related harm, improve public awareness and strengthen the enforcement of smoke-free environments.

The stakeholder analysis and mapping exercise sought to identify institutions and individuals with the influence and capacity to advance tobacco control, establish areas for collaboration and develop a coordinated advocacy approach. By clarifying stakeholder roles and strengthening partnerships, the initiative aims to translate existing support into practical action towards the operationalisation of the Act.

The workshop forms part of the Clean Air Botswana Project: Fast-Tracking the Regulations, which seeks to build political and public support for tobacco control and accelerate the implementation of the regulations.

Through this collaborative effort, ATN continues to advocate for stronger public health protections, healthier communities and a future where tobacco-related harm is prevented through effective policies and collective action. write a proper news story for Ub newsletter