–BY Issah Olegor
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with key stakeholders, is commemorating World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2025 on June 2nd.
This year’s theme, “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products,” highlights the deceptive strategies employed by the tobacco industry to lure younger generations into addiction.
Tobacco use claims over 8 million lives annually, yet the industry continues to deploy sophisticated tactics to glamorize its products.
Flavors, sleek packaging, and social media influencers are used to mask the risks associated with tobacco consumption.
In Ghana, 4.8% of the adult population (18-69 years) currently smoke tobacco, with a significant difference in prevalence between men (9.3%) and women (0.3%).
Shisha Smoking
Alarmingly, 7.8% of Ghanaians smoke shisha, with a higher prevalence among women (44%) who currently smoke.
The 18-29 age group is particularly vulnerable, with 12.7% engaging in shisha smoking.
The Ministry of Health and its partners are urging collective action to expose the industry’s attempts to normalize nicotine use and undermine tobacco control efforts.
Activities lined up for WNTD 2025 include:
Launch of WNTD: A launch event in Ho, Volta Region, with participation from chiefs, sub-chiefs, and opinion leaders.
Public Awareness: A walk/float through Ho’s main streets, displaying key messages on tobacco’s dangers and industry manipulation.
Educational Programs: Nationwide programs in schools, markets, churches, and transport terminals.
Targeted Messaging: Campaigns on social and traditional media platforms.
Surveillance Operations: Enforcement of the ban on illicit tobacco and nicotine products.
Strengthening Tobacco Control Policies
The Ministry of Health is committed to educating the public, especially youth, on the deceptive practices of the tobacco industry and strengthening existing tobacco control policies.
By uniting efforts, Ghanaians can protect future generations from tobacco-related diseases and build a healthier, tobacco-free nation.
