By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
The Liberian House of Representatives has tasked its Committees on Youth and Sports and Health to investigate a formal request seeking a nationwide prohibition on the importation, sale, and use of shisha and kush—a dangerous drug increasingly plaguing communities.
The directive came during the House’s regular session on Thursday as part of its 17th Day sitting for the first quarter of the 2nd legislative session. Lawmakers expressed concern over the growing health risks linked to the rising popularity of shisha, commonly known as hookah, and the alarming spread of kush use in Liberia.
The petition, submitted by Restoring Hope Foundation International, emphasized the serious health hazards associated with smoking shisha. According to the organization, many Liberians mistakenly view shisha as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, research shows that shisha smokers often inhale significantly higher levels of toxic substances, putting them at risk of infections, lung disease, cardiovascular complications, and several forms of cancer.
The foundation further pointed out that shisha smoke contains large quantities of nicotine and carcinogens, which can lead to addiction and increase the likelihood of developing cancers of the lungs, mouth, and stomach. The appeal also drew attention to the widespread availability of flavored tobacco products, which has fueled the habit among young people, especially in urban areas.
Equally concerning, the petition flagged kush as an emerging drug menace with potentially devastating impacts on Liberia’s public health. The group urged lawmakers to act swiftly to prevent the substance from wreaking further havoc on society.
Following the review, the committees are expected to return with detailed recommendations to inform possible legislative action after the First Quarter Break.
