The Zambia National Students Union (ZANASU) says it is working closely with other unions in sensitising youths on the dangers of tobacco abuse.  

Speaking ahead of todays commemorations of the youth day celebrations, ZANASU president, Dennis Chipili, revealed that the sensitisation programmes are being conducted in higher learning institutions.

He indicates that the union targeted higher learning institutions because of the high numbers of students who abuse tobacco substances.

Mr Chipili says the desire of the union is to protect the health and well-being of youths from higher learning institutions.

Speaking in an Interview with ZANIS in Lusaka yesterday8, Mr Chipili, said tobacco abuse among youths has become a major public health concern in the country.

He highlighted that thousands of young people have fallen prey to the addictive substance every year.

Mr Chipili expressed concern over the high rise of tobacco use among youths citing statistics that show over 7,000 deaths being recorded last year due to tobacco related illnesses.

Mr Chipili further urged young people to take up leadership roles and contribute significantly to society. 

He also called on policymakers to take swift action in regulating tobacco use, emphasising that ZANASU is not advocating for a ban on tobacco but rather regulations to curb mortality rates.