Burkinabe authorities are adopting a stricter approach to tobacco packaging and labelling through a newly enacted decree.
According to Health Minister Dr. Lucien Kargougou, the review of this decree aligns with the guidelines set by the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), which calls on member states to implement plain packaging to enhance the effectiveness of health warnings.
This decree comes in response to the devastating impact of tobacco use, which leads to over 4,800 deaths annually in Burkina Faso, including 1,300 non-smokers who succumb to the dangers of passive smoking.
The new measure will ban the use of logos, colours, brand images, or promotional text on tobacco product packaging. Only the brand name and its variant, printed in standard characters and colours, will be permitted.
Additionally, cigarette packaging will now feature a uniform, matte colour, with at least 80% of each main side covered with graphic health warnings.
The decree strengthens tobacco packaging and labelling regulations in Burkina Faso, aiming to protect public health and reduce tobacco consumption.
