WHO Warns Of Tobacco Industry’s Growing Grip On African Youth
As the world marks World No Tobacco Day 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) is sounding the alarm over a troubling trend in Africa; the rising use of tobacco and nicotine products among children and teenagers.
The Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, in his message, highlighted this year’s theme, “Unmasking the Appeal”, urging urgent action to shield young people from manipulative industry tactics that glamorise harmful products.
Dr Ihekweazu warned that flavoured vapes, sleek packaging, and targeted online ads are making tobacco seem fashionable to youths but beneath the flashy designs lie lifelong health risks.
Over 61 million people across the region currently use tobacco, with more than 146,000 deaths each year linked to its use.
Even more worrying, is the fact that over 6% of adolescents aged 13 to 15 are already using tobacco products many lured in by misleading marketing.
Dr Ihekweazu called on governments, families, schools and communities to work together to tighten regulations, ban youth-targeted product designs, and step up education.
“Protecting our young people from tobacco is not just a health duty — it’s a moral one,” he said.
As countries like Mauritius lead the way with bold tobacco control measures, WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting African nations in creating a tobacco-free future.