Venus Charumbira
Environment and Health Reporter
Bulawayo — Vaping, once marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, has emerged as a silent killer, ruining health and perpetuating nicotine addiction under the guise of harm reduction.
Despite growing awareness, many users remain unaware of its risks and long-term consequences.
Drug abuse, including vaping, is on the rise in Zimbabwe and Bulawayo in particular amongst youths, with health experts raising alarms over its increasing prevalence.
“Although vaping is not yet widespread in Zimbabwe, cases are growing, and these products are becoming more accessible in the market,” said a public health specialist.
Vapes, also known as e-cigarettes, vape pens, or e-pipes, come in discreet designs resembling everyday items like flash drives or asthma inhalers, making them easy for youths to conceal. Popular brands such as Puff Bar and SMOK contain nicotine, the same addictive chemical found in tobacco.
“Vaping has all the terrible problems of smoking, multiplied. It predisposes users to lung cancer, gum disease, and severe nicotine dependency. In some ways, it is actually worse than smoking,” warned an oncologist at Mpilo Central Hospital.
The e-liquid used in vapes contains nicotine, flavorings, and propylene glycol. While evidence suggests vaping exposes users to fewer toxins than traditional cigarettes, it is not risk-free.
“Switching to vaping may reduce exposure to cancer-causing chemicals, but it remains harmful, particularly for young people,” explained Professor Lovemore Sibanda, a researcher at the University of Zimbabwe.
Teenagers are increasingly drawn to vaping due to flavored products, peer pressure, and misconceptions about safety. Social media influencers and celebrities have further normalized its use.
“Youths are motivated by curiosity and social influence. The marketing tactics targeting them are irresponsible,” Prof. Sibanda added.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has criticized the aggressive promotion of vaping products.
“These items are being sold as consumer goods and marketed to youth, undermining efforts to curb nicotine addiction,” a WHO spokesperson stated.
Health advocates urge families, schools, and communities to prioritize education and awareness.
“We must act now to prevent a public health crisis. Support systems and clear messaging are critical to protect our youth,” Emphasised the oncologist.
As Zimbabwe confronts this growing epidemic, experts stress that vaping is not a harmless escape from smoking but a gateway to addiction and disease.
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