As Ghana joins the fight against tobacco and nicotine addiction On World No Tobacco Day 2025, Parliament joined in the discussion.
Speaking passionately on the floor of parliament, on the negative impact Tobacco and other hard drugs have on the youth, Member of Parliament for North Dayi, Joycelyn Quashie warned of the deceptive tactics used by the industry to lure young consumers.
In her statement, she raised serious concern on the number of flavors introduced on the market and the deceiving advertisement to lure the youth into purchasing.
“Behind the shiny packaging, the attractive flavors, and the sleek advertisements lies a multi-billion-dollar industry relentlessly recruiting the next generation of consumers—our children, our youth”.
She highlighted how the tobacco industry, facing a decline in traditional markets, has turned its focus to young people, using digital platforms, influencers.
“All around us, the tobacco industry is making smoking look glamorous. They sponsor youth events, introduce flavored products to mask the harshness of nicotine, and flood television screens with images portraying smoking as a luxury or a status symbol.”
Jocelyn Quashie called for stronger policies, including a ban on flavored tobacco and nicotine products, increased regulation of deceptive marketing, and greater public awareness.
“This is not simply a public health issue. It is a matter of national development, social justice, and intergenerational equity.”
Ghana has not been spared, as it is currently witnessing a quiet but steady rise in tobacco-related illnesses, including heart disease, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions all of which strain the already fragile healthcare system.
By: Paulina Arthur
