The Institute of Leadership and Development (INSLA) joins the global community in observing World No Tobacco Day 2025, a day set aside and dedicated to highlight the risks associated with tobacco consumption and advocating for stronger policies for tobacco control and prevention.

This year’s celebration comes with an urgent and thought-provoking theme: 'Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing the Truth Behind Tobacco Harm Reduction.'
This year’s campaign calls attention to the misleading marketing of so-called “reduced harm” tobacco products such as e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products to lure people particularly the youth and the vulnerable population.

These alternatives are increasingly promoted by the tobacco industry as safer substitutes despite mounting evidence that they still pose significant health risks.
The tobacco industry’s deceitful marketing strategies, flavored products and sleek packaging are designed to create a false narrative about the safety and appeal of their products.

Despite this deceitful narrative from the tobacco industry, the truth still remains that tobacco consumption is a leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide, accounting for more than 7 million death each year. The evolution of traditional tobacco to the use of e- cigarettes because of its sleek, colorful and flavorful nature has brought an increase to the sale of tobacco (e- cigarettes) globally.

The shift towards e-cigarettes among adolescents presents a fresh challenge in tobacco control, compounding existing concerns around traditional smoking and demanding innovative solutions.

INSLA acknowledges the efforts of the Government of Ghana and the Ministry of Health in advancing tobacco control through the Public Health Act and related regulatory frameworks. However, the rising popularity and availability of novel tobacco products, such as shisha, flavored products and candies especially among the youth, highlight the need for more robust action and public awareness.

Tobacco use remains a leading preventable cause of death and disease globally and in Ghana, contributing to heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

These “novel” products merely extend the reach and lifespan of an industry that profits from addiction. The tobacco industry thrives on misinformation. Young people are often unaware that these products contain highly addictive nicotine and pose serious health risks and could get them hooked on it forever.

Benjamin Anabila, Director of INSLA, stated,
“This year’s theme reminds us that we cannot afford to be complacent. Behind the façade of sleek marketing lies the same deadly substance, nicotine, designed to hook users into a lifetime of dependence. We must expose these tactics and protect the health of our people, especially the youth. With profit as their sole motive, the tobacco industry's actions must be met with stringent regulations and evidence-based public health measures that safeguard communities from tobacco-related harm.

He further emphasized the urgent need for collective action, including:
1. Full implementation and enforcement of the Tobacco Control Measures under the Public Health Act.
2. Strict regulation of novel tobacco and nicotine products, including advertising bans and age restrictions.
3. Comprehensive public education campaigns highlighting the risks of emerging tobacco products.
4. Support for tobacco cessation programs to help users quit successfully.
5. Youth engagement and empowerment to resist industry manipulation and advocate for tobacco-free environments.
INSLA remains committed to working with government agencies, civil society, healthcare providers, educators, and the media to strengthen advocacy, build institutional capacity, and promote a tobacco-free Ghana.
We call on all Ghanaians to stand firm against the normalisation of tobacco because the latest tobacco products are a wolf in sheep's clothing - deceptively designed, tech-savvy, and socially normalized to lure in a new generation of users. Together, we can protect public health, empower the youth, and advance Ghana’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
Let us all remember: Behind the glamour and façade of “tobacco harm reduction” lies a deadly trap to hook people on tobacco. Prioritise your health.

Signed by:
Mary Yayra Kpogo
Program Officer
Institute of Leadership and Development (INSLA)
Tel: +233-(0)30-393-4021 / +233-(0)26-837-6320
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.inslad.org