BEN SCHERNICK ON TAX REFORMS FOR ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO
Desert FM July 15, 2025
The Ministry of Health is looking at stronger tax reforms on alcohol and tobacco, citing rising health risks and substance abuse, particularly among Namibian youth. At a workshop this week, minister Esperance Luvindao said the move is aimed at curbing harmful consumption and generating funds for public health. The World Health Organization backs the effort, but it has sparked debate over its likely impact on households, health systems, and vulnerable communities. To share his thoughts on this, we are joined by Ben Schernick, Director of the Nutrition and Food Security Alliance of Namibia.