Executive Director of Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development (VAST), Mr. Labram Musah a distinguished tobacco control advocate, has been honored with the prestigious World Health Organization (WHO) World No Tobacco Day Award 2025 in recognition of his tireless efforts to advance tobacco control and public health in Ghana, Africa, and globally.
In his acceptance speech delivered before an audience of WHO representatives, government officials, civil society leaders, media partners, and colleagues, Mr. Musah expressed deep humility and gratitude. He acknowledged the collective effort behind the achievement, emphasizing that the award represents a shared milestone for all stakeholders committed to combating tobacco-related harm.
Mr. Musah paid tribute to the Almighty God, the WHO, and key national partners including the Ministry of Health, Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Ministry of Finance, and Ghana Revenue Authority for their leadership and collaboration. He also recognized the vital role played by civil society organizations, youth advocates, researchers, journalists, and community leaders in resisting tobacco industry interference and advancing policy reforms.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Musah recalled his earlier work with VALD-Ghana, which earned a similar WHO award in 2013 alongside colleague Issah Ali. He credited the ongoing support of Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development (VAST-Ghana) and the Ghana NCD Alliance for driving innovative advocacy and evidence-based strategies.
Highlighting key accomplishments, Mr. Musah noted the successful advocacy for Ghana’s Tobacco Control Measures and Regulations enacted in 2012 and 2016, efforts to increase taxes on harmful tobacco products, and active engagement in global platforms such as the United Nations Multistakeholder Hearing on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health to amplify African voices.
Despite these successes, Mr. Musah cautioned that the fight against tobacco remains critical as the industry evolves its tactics, including flavored products and digital marketing targeting youth and vulnerable populations. He called for accelerated implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), stronger taxation, protection of children from aggressive marketing, enforcement of laws, and sustained political will.
In closing, Mr. Musah acknowledged the unwavering support of family, colleagues, and mentors, including Dr. Olivia Boateng, FDA CEO Dr. Delasi, Mavis Danso, Chief David Hukpoti, and others who have encouraged him throughout his advocacy journey.
“This award is a call to action,” he said. “Let us continue this journey, inspired, united, and resolute—to create a tobacco-free future for Ghana, for Africa, and for the world.”
The WHO World No Tobacco Day Award is presented annually to individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership and impact in tobacco control efforts worldwide.