WHO Raises Concern Over Rising Tobacco Production in Africa.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised concerns over the rising production of tobacco leaves in Africa despite a global decline, warning of potential health, economic and environmental consequences.

According to the WHO analysis, the continued growth of tobacco leaf production on the continent could undermine public health efforts and create wider challenges for sustainable development.

The organisation noted that tobacco production has implications beyond consumption, including environmental degradation, economic dependence and the livelihoods of farming communities.

The WHO said the trend also raised concerns about the long term sustainability of tobacco growing, particularly as countries face increasing health and environmental pressures.

It called for greater attention to the economic and social factors driving tobacco cultivation, as well as policies that could support healthier and more sustainable alternatives for farmers.

The organisation stressed the need for governments and other stakeholders to consider the broader health, economic and environmental costs of tobacco production when developing agricultural and development policies.