Government launches 5-year campaign on tobacco

The government has announced a five-year national campaign aimed at reducing tobacco use across the Maldives.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at the President’s Office Sunday, where ministers outlined Cabinet decisions to mark International No Tobacco Day.

Speaking at the press conference, Health Minister Geela Ali said the Maldives had introduced a number of tobacco control measures under the current administration. These include a ban on vaping products and a generational smoking ban covering all children born from 2007 onwards.

Geela said the government’s current objective is to establish a tobacco-free society through a national campaign.

“A national campaign is being launched today to reduce tobacco use over the next five years,” she said, adding that the issue requires sustained efforts over a longer period.

She said the campaign would be implemented in collaboration with government ministries, associations and members of the public, and called for the support of all stakeholders.

“At the current mortality rate in our population, 84 per cent of people die from communicable diseases or various causes linked to the harmful effects of tobacco,” Geela said.

Education Minister Dr Ismail Shafeeu, who also addressed the press conference, said the campaign logo would be designed with the participation of stakeholders.

He said the campaign seeks to reduce the number of tobacco users and support the development of a healthy society.

Under the initiative, schools across the country will begin providing information to students, teachers and families on the dangers of tobacco use and its effects.

Shafeeu added that financial assistance would also be provided to associations participating in campaign activities.