WHO awards Maldives president special recognition for anti-tobacco efforts
The announcement came on World No Tobacco Day, a global campaign aimed at raising awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco use.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has been honoured with a Special Award from the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) in recognition of his significant contributions to tobacco control. The announcement came on World No Tobacco Day, a global campaign aimed at raising awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco use.
The prestigious award was presented to President Muizzu alongside the Ministry of Health of Mauritius, highlighting their leadership in implementing strong anti-tobacco measures. A total of 36 individuals from around the world were acknowledged for their efforts, but the WHO noted that the most outstanding recognition this year was reserved for the Maldivian President and Mauritius.
Among the landmark policies under Muizzu’s leadership is the recent introduction of a “generation ban” on tobacco. This bold move prohibits the use, sale, and trade of tobacco products for individuals born on or after 1 January 2007. The law also extends the existing ban on tobacco sales to those under 21 years of age, tightening enforcement across the country.
In addition to the generational tobacco ban, President Muizzu has enacted a nationwide prohibition on the sale and import of vape products, further strengthening the Maldives’ commitment to public health and youth protection.
