The World Health Organisation has urged African governments to strengthen tobacco control laws and protect public health policies from tobacco industry influence.
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, raised the alarm in a message marking World No Tobacco Day 2026, warning that tobacco and nicotine companies are increasingly targeting children and young people.
According to WHO, Africa’s youthful population makes the continent vulnerable, with more than 60 percent of the population under the age of 25.
Janabi warned that manufacturers are using flavours, sweeteners, menthol and other additives to make tobacco and nicotine products more attractive to young people.
He said products such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches should not be presented as harmless alternatives, stressing that all tobacco and nicotine products carry health risks.
WHO called on governments to ban youth-attracting flavours, regulate product design and packaging, close regulatory loopholes and prevent the tobacco industry from influencing public health decisions.
The organisation said stronger prevention measures are needed to protect a new generation from nicotine addiction.
Daily Times
