Ghana joined the global community in commemorating World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) 2025 with a renewed commitment to protect young people from the manipulative tactics of the tobacco and nicotine industries. This year’s theme, “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products,” underscores the urgent need to reveal and counter the strategies used by these industries to attract new generations of users.
Organized by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in collaboration with key stakeholders, the national event took place in Ho, Volta Region, drawing participation from chiefs, opinion leaders, health professionals, and youth advocates. Activities included a public awareness walk through the city’s main streets, educational programs in schools, markets, and churches, as well as a series of media campaigns highlighting the dangers of tobacco and nicotine use.
Recent data from the Ghana STEPS Report 2023 reveals that while the overall prevalence of tobacco smoking is 4.8%, men (9.3%) are far more likely to smoke than women (0.3%). Alarmingly, the report notes a rise in shisha use, particularly among young people and women, with 44% of female users. The Global Youth Tobacco Survey further indicates that 8.8% of students aged 13–15 use tobacco products, and nearly 5% use electronic nicotine delivery systems such as e-cigarettes and vapes, with usage rates nearly equal among boys and girls.
Health officials warn that the tobacco industry continues to deploy deceptive tactics, including flavorings, sleek packaging, and targeted digital marketing, to make their products appealing, often resembling sweets or toys to entice children and teenagers. These strategies increase the risk of early addiction, making quitting more difficult and undermining decades of progress in tobacco control.
“The protection of our youth from the tobacco industry’s intrusion is critical,” said an FDA spokesperson. “By strengthening regulations, restricting targeted marketing, and empowering young people with knowledge, we can prevent a new generation from falling victim to nicotine addiction.”
Key objectives of this year’s campaign include exposing industry manipulation, raising public awareness of health risks, advocating for bans on flavored nicotine products, and enforcing stricter regulations to shield youth from targeted advertising.
As part of the commemoration, nationwide surveillance activities are being conducted to remove illicit tobacco products from the market, and interagency meetings are underway to coordinate ongoing efforts.
World No Tobacco Day 2025 serves as a rallying point for communities, policymakers, and health advocates to unite against the tobacco epidemic. Through collective action and sustained advocacy, Ghana aims to build a future where children and young people can thrive, free from the harms of tobacco and nicotine.