Mauritius commemorated World No-Tobacco Day on 02 June 2025, participating nursing, medical, and college college students in a marketing campaign aimed toward elevating consciousness concerning the tobacco trade’s evolving advertising and marketing ways—significantly these focusing on younger folks. The occasion sought to alert the youth to the risks of latest nicotine merchandise and techniques designed to provoke habit and promote dangerous smoking habits.
Contributors had been warned about flavoured tobacco and nicotine merchandise, that are engineered to cut back the harshness of tobacco and improve its attraction. Particular consideration was drawn to the rise of digital nicotine supply techniques and different subtle, engaging units which are aggressively marketed to younger folks, luring them into habit on the expense of their well being and future.
Minister of Well being and Wellness, Hon. Anil Kumar Bachoo, reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to combating the tobacco epidemic in Mauritius. He highlighted the federal government’s ongoing efforts to stop smoking initiation and to assist these looking for to stop. The Minister proudly referenced the WHO Director-Basic’s Particular Recognition Award, which he acquired from Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on the 78th World Well being Meeting in Could 2025, acknowledging Mauritius’ world management in tobacco management.
“We will go away no stone unturned to make Mauritius a rustic the place nobody dies from a preventable illness,” declared Minister Bachoo.
Dr. Anne Ancia, WHO Consultant in Mauritius, addressed the viewers with a strong message:
“Don’t be fooled. Resist and say ‘No’ to the insidious ways of the tobacco trade attempting to hook you for good. Say ‘Sure’ to well being and to a thriving future—for your self and for Mauritius.”
Dr. Ancia congratulated Minister Bachoo on receiving the WHO award, describing it as a testomony to a long time of nationwide dedication within the battle in opposition to tobacco. Nonetheless, she cautioned that “the battle will not be but gained” and emphasised the significance of full enforcement of the brand new laws:
“There isn’t any room for complacency. Way more must be achieved to avoid wasting lives and shield future generations.”
In his opening remarks, Professor Sanjeev Sobhee, Vice-Chancellor of the College of Mauritius, spoke concerning the twin influence of tobacco on younger folks—each by way of well being and funds. He inspired college students to:
“Have the braveness to say no to those lethal merchandise. Assume twice earlier than participating in using tobacco and nicotine.”
Forward of the official launch, an interactive youth discussion board was held the place well being consultants offered the risks of tobacco and nicotine use and the most recent trade advertising and marketing methods. College students shared their views, mentioned how to withstand peer strain, and realized about free tobacco cessation companies accessible throughout the island.