By: Albert Fania
The Restoring Hope Foundation has embarked on a campaign urging the Liberian government to ban shisha smoking nationwide.
The campaign, currently under review by the House of Representatives’ Committees on Youth and Sports, and Health, advocates for a complete prohibition on the importation, sale, and consumption of both shisha and the drug kush in Liberia.
Speaking on his organization’s objectives, Restoring Hope Foundation Executive Director Maxson Kpakio emphasized the significant health risks associated with shisha smoking, particularly its damaging effects on cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
Countering the common belief that shisha is less harmful than cigarettes, Kpakio stressed that shisha exposes users to significantly higher levels of toxic compounds.
This increased exposure elevates the risk of infections, various cancers, lung diseases, and other serious medical conditions.
Maxson Kpakio argued that shisha smoke contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance, as well as numerous cancer-causing chemicals.
Studies cited in the foundation’s petition indicate that shisha smokers face twice the risk of lung cancer and an elevated risk of mouth and stomach cancers.
The Restoring Hope Foundation Executive Director further highlighted the social acceptance of shisha, the easy availability of flavored tobacco, and widespread misinformation regarding its safety as major factors contributing to its popularity, especially among Liberian youth and urban communities.
