Joseph Isangura
Concerned by the rising number of young people becoming addicted to shisha smoking and gambling, the Tanzanian government has launched a review of laws regulating tobacco use and gaming activities.
The Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs, Dr. Damas Ndumbaro, made the announcement in Parliament on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, while presenting his ministry’s budget for the 2025/2026 financial year.
Dr. Ndumbaro explained that the Law Reform Commission of Tanzania has already prepared a discussion paper and is now preparing to collect input from stakeholders across the country. The goal, he said, is to help the government develop effective legal tools that protect public health and curb the growing trends of addiction, particularly among youth.
“There’s an urgent need to examine how we’re regulating shisha use and gambling,” he said. “The review will allow us to identify loopholes and recommend the best ways forward to safeguard our young people.”
The use of shisha—often seen as a trendy, social activity among urban youth—has come under renewed scrutiny. Despite a previous ban in 2016 due to health and addiction concerns, enforcement remains patchy, and the practice continues, especially in entertainment spots frequented by young adults.
Dr. Ndumbaro emphasized that this review is not simply about enforcement, but also about updating the legal framework to reflect current realities. “We must stay ahead of trends that threaten our social fabric,” he added.
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The government is also turning its attention to the country’s growing sports betting and gambling culture. While legal gambling is a regulated industry in Tanzania, officials are increasingly worried about its impact on minors and the risk of addiction.
According to the minister, part of the review will focus on evaluating how well the current Gaming Act is being enforced—especially when it comes to protecting children and adolescents from gambling-related harm.
“The law should protect participants,” he said, “but also be proactive in preventing underage involvement and the long-term consequences of addiction.”
The Law Reform Commission is expected to complete its review and submit recommendations to the government within the 2025/2026 financial year. The findings could shape future legislation aimed at reinforcing social safeguards and ensuring that economic activities like tobacco use and gambling are balanced with public health and community wellbeing.
