AfricaNews editorial desk with additional files from BBC
Public smoking is being phased off in Egypt. The biggest Arab consumer of cigarettes has implemented the law in the city of Alexandria, beginning with a ban on lighting up in government buildings. It is estimated that 19 billion cigarettes are smoked in the northern African country annually.
"Smoking in Egypt is very common, unfortunately. Out of every 10 men, four smoke and more and more women are smoking now,” the BBC quoted Dr Hassan Salam of the University of Alexandria.
"The statistics show that Egyptians smoke about 19 billion cigarettes a year. It's a big public health problem."
Traditional shisha water pipes are very common in most coffee shops and experts say persuading Egyptians to quit would be herculean task. Smoking is rife at train stations, offices and even in hospitals.
However, the local authorities in Alexandria according to the BBC are poised to change the status quo.
The local authorities first plan to enforce an existing law - one that is usually flouted - prohibiting smoking in government buildings. The ban would then be extended to include cafes within two years.
South Africa's African agenda13:00
Women struggle to rinse hunger, poverty stains11:11
Climate Climate change affects migratory birds…09:23
Ghana: Foreign retailers cited for currency…18/05
Kenya: Community radio brings succour to…18/05
Veld fires 'flame' Zimbabwe's…16/05
Liberia commends ECOWAS for support14/05
Heavy rains cause havoc in Kenya14/05
