WHO Urges Stronger Tobacco Controls to Rising Addiction

Brazzaville, Congo — As the global community marks World No Tobacco Day 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm over an escalating tobacco crisis affecting Africa’s young population — a trend it attributes to aggressive marketing tactics by the tobacco industry.

In a compelling statement on Friday, WHO’s Acting Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, called for unified and urgent action to counter the growing appeal of tobacco and nicotine products among teenagers and children across the continent.

“Africa is facing a surge in youth tobacco use,” Ihekweazu noted. “This year’s theme, ‘Unmasking the Appeal’, reveals how companies are strategically using flavored options, eye-catching designs, and digital platforms to attract young, impressionable users.”

According to WHO data, over 146,000 deaths in Africa are linked to tobacco-related illnesses annually, while 61 million people in the region actively use tobacco products. Of particular concern is that 6% of adolescents aged 13 to 15 have already begun using tobacco — often unaware of the risks due to deceptive packaging that mimics candies and toys.

“Nicotine has a particularly harmful effect on developing brains,” Dr. Ihekweazu explained. “Early exposure increases vulnerability to serious health complications like cancer, heart disease, and impaired brain development.”

While several African countries have introduced measures such as bans on advertising, smoke-free environments, and education campaigns, WHO insists that these efforts fall short of addressing the magnitude of the problem.

The organization is advocating for a bold, multi-pronged strategy including:

Prohibition of flavored tobacco products

Tight restrictions on digital and social media tobacco promotions

Standardized packaging that removes visual appeal to children

Dr. Ihekweazu concluded with a call to action for governments, educators, parents, and the media to work together in shielding Africa’s future generations from the clutches of tobacco addiction.

“Protecting our youth from the predatory practices of the tobacco industry is not only essential for public health — it’s a collective moral duty,” he emphasized.

By Enoch  Odesola | May 31, 2025