The City of Cape Town has raised concerns about increasing nicotine dependence among young people, particularly those still in school, as it intensifies efforts to combat tobacco and vaping use in schools across the metro. 

The City’s Community Services and Health Directorate referred to a study published in the South African Medical Journal, which noted that in 2011, 21.5% of learners in Grades 8 to 11 reported using tobacco products. 12.7% smoked cigarettes. This 2011 study did not include the data from other inhaled products. 

According to the study, the number of learners smoking cigarettes has dropped, with only 2.1% (of the more than 25,000 learners they surveyed) who use tobacco cigarettes. E-cigarettes or vapes are now more popular, with 16.18% of learners using them, while 5.1% used cannabis and 3.2% using hookah.  

The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services, Councillor Francine Higham, noted that these rising figures are quite concerning. 

“These statistics demonstrate that tobacco use among learners is a real and growing problem,” said Higham.  

She said that many children are exposed to smoking at home or within their communities, and it is often perceived as a symbol of status. 

“Tobacco use among learners is a major public health concern because it is linked to respiratory diseases, heart disease, cancer, and nicotine addiction,” read the City’s statement.  

The City is encouraging young people to make use of youth-specific services available at the clinics in the area and urges residents seeking advice on tobacco use or quitting support to visit their nearest public healthcare facility. 

“All City clinics offer youth-specific services to encourage young people to invest in their health and wellbeing. They can book appointments through the City Health self-service portal, improving access and convenience,” said Higham.  

Meanwhile, the City has been hosting awareness campaigns at schools since the start of the year, aimed at educating learners about the dangers of tobacco use and nicotine addiction. 

“City Health promotes healthy lifestyle choices, encouraging children to avoid the use of tobacco and vapes, and promoting smoke-free environments. The main goal is to prevent them from taking that first puff,” Higham.

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