Public health activist gets award from KP governor
Efforts of civil society in sensitizing public leads to proactive response from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, says governor.
Irshadullah Khan
PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Ghulam Ali awarded Qamar Naseem, Program Manager of Blue Veins, with a token of appreciation for his exemplary leadership in raising awareness about the harmful impacts of newer nicotine and tobacco products among policymakers and stakeholders in the province.
This tribute highlights the vital role civil society organizations (CSOs) like Blue Veins play in educating communities on health risks, particularly regarding the burgeoning menace of vapes and e-cigarettes, says a press release.
“Under the leadership of Mr. Qamar, Blue Veins has spearheaded campaigns that shed light on the adverse health effects of emerging tobacco and nicotine products, rallying for stringent control measures. His efforts have been instrumental in sensitizing the public and officials alike, leading to a proactive response from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government.”
In alignment with the call to action by civil society organizations, the provincial authorities have enacted an interim ban under section 144 on the sale of vapes and e-cigarettes to individuals below the age of 21, pending the formulation of comprehensive legislation aimed at permanently prohibiting these products.
The governor also expressed support for extending the existing ban, emphasizing the need for robust legislative frameworks to ensure the long-term health and safety of the community. This move reflects a strong commitment to safeguarding public health against the evolving threat posed by nicotine and tobacco products.
Reflecting on the recognition, Mr. Qamar Naseem stated, “This appreciation is not just for me but for all those who believe in the fight against the misleading harm reduction narrative of the tobacco industry. Our commitment is to challenge these claims vigorously and to raise public awareness about the potential harms associated with newer nicotine and tobacco products. We stand firm in our resolve to protect our youth and communities from these dangers, advocating for policies that prioritize health over industry profits.”
Mr. Naseem’s leadership and advocacy efforts have been instrumental in the ongoing efforts against nicotine and tobacco products in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. His work has not only led to immediate regulatory actions, such as the interim ban but has also laid the groundwork for enduring public health policies aimed at combating the influence of the tobacco industry.
The recognition by the governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reflects the significant impact of civil society in mobilizing for health-centric policies and regulations. As the province moves towards enacting comprehensive legislation, the contributions of Mr. Qamar Naseem and Blue Veins will remain integral to the collective efforts to ensure a healthier future for all residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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