Authorities of the Wau municipality have banned the smoking and sale of water-pipe tobacco, popularly known as shisha.

Shisha smoking has become increasingly popular with young people in South Sudan.

The deputy mayor for land and environment affairs, Makuac Deng Madut, said on Tuesday that the municipality prohibited the importation, sale and use of shisha in restaurants and clubs in Wau town.

The deputy mayor pointed out that the ban is largely informed by growing health concerns.” We decided to ban shisha because it is harmful,” he said.

In the notice, Mr. Makuac warned that anyone found defying the order on shisha smoking will be liable to a fine.

“No person will be allowed to import shisha because it is prohibited. Shisha is harmful and we appeal to our people in Wau to understand what we are saying,” Makuac said.

Separately, the deputy mayor said they have banned the sale of diesel and petrol in the black market in Wau town, cautioning local residents against selling fuel on the streets in the area.

“Petrol stations are the only places where you can buy diesel and petrol. It is a high risk to your family and property when you hide a jerrican of petrol in your house, “he said.

Makuac added that the relevant authorities will crackdown on those who are selling fuel on the streets.