Regulating Underage Use of Alcohol & Tobacco
Protecting Our Youth
OUR MISSION
The strength of a nation depends on the health, discipline, and well-being of its young people. Underage access to alcohol and tobacco remains a growing concern in communities across The Gambia. This is observed to be contributing to long-term health risks, school dropout rates, and behavioral challenges.
To safeguard the next generation and promote responsible citizenship, the NBP will implement a comprehensive national framework to regulate and prevent underage consumption of tobacco, Alcohol and other illicit drugs.
OUR PLAN
This initiative begins with clear, enforceable age-limit laws that match global public health standards. These laws will set strict minimum age requirements for purchasing and consuming alcohol and tobacco products nationwide. Retailers, wholesalers, bars, and community shops will be required to follow these rules without exception.
To ensure that both businesses and communities fully understand these regulations, the government will roll out a public education campaign using flyers, posters, and informational materials displayed in stores, markets, schools, clinics, and youth centers.
Messaging will be simple, direct, and widely accessible. The goal is to make every citizen aware of the risks associated with early substance use and the shared responsibility we all have in protecting our youth.
In addition, the NBP will create easy-to-remember identification and enforcement guidelines for retailers. This will include standardized “Check ID” procedures, clear signage indicating age requirements, and straightforward steps for shopkeepers to verify customer eligibility.
Training sessions will be offered for businesses to ensure compliance, and violations will result in penalties designed to deter illegal sales.
IMPORTANCE
Through consistent enforcement, public awareness, and community partnership, this policy aims to build a safer environment for young people. The NBP’s commitment is to raise a generation that is healthier, more focused, and better prepared to contribute to national development under the National Standard of discipline and responsibility. This legal framework shall designate smoke-free and alcohol-free zones as well.