-In Nightclubs, Bars
MONROVIA, The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), in coordination with public health and law enforcement agencies, has issued an immediate ban on the sale, distribution, promotion, and use of Shisha (Hookah) products across all nightclubs, bars, lounges, and similar entertainment venues nationwide.
The directive, signed by Minister Magdalene Ellen Dagoseh, takes effect today and demands strict compliance from all establishment owners and operators. The Ministry has instructed businesses to cease all Shisha-related activities immediately, remove all equipment from their premises, and prohibit patrons from consuming the product on-site.
The government has made it clear that violations will be met with severe consequences. Establishments found flouting the ban face:
· Immediate closure of the business
· Substantial fines as prescribed by Liberian law
· Suspension or revocation of their business licenses
· Additional administrative or legal sanctions as deemed appropriate
“Business owners are urged to cooperate fully and take immediate corrective action to avoid penalties,” the Ministry stated.
Inspections Underway
To ensure full compliance, the Ministry announced that routine and unannounced inspections will be conducted across the country. Management and staff of all affected establishments are expected to strictly enforce the prohibition.
The prohibition is grounded in public health considerations and the need to enforce existing regulations governing tobacco and related products. Shisha smoking, which has grown in popularity in Liberia’s nightlife scene, has been linked to significant health risks including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease, and exposure to toxic substances.
The Ministry emphasized that failure to comply “will result in the full force of the law being invoked,” signaling the administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public welfare.
Shisha, also known as hookah or waterpipe, is a device used to smoke flavored tobacco that is heated with charcoal, with the smoke passing through water before being inhaled through a hose. Despite the common misconception that the water filters out harmful substances, shisha smoke contains high levels of nicotine, carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and cancer-causing chemicals.
