Mauritius Observes World No-Tobacco Day 2025

Mauritius commemorated World No-Tobacco Day on 02 June 2025, reinforcing its commitment to public health and sustainable development. In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being), the initiative engaged nursing, medical, and university students in a dynamic awareness campaign aimed at exposing the tobacco industry’s evolving marketing tactics—especially those targeting young people.

The event alerted youth to the dangers of new nicotine products and manipulative strategies designed to initiate addiction. Flavoured tobacco and nicotine products, crafted to mask the harshness of tobacco and enhance appeal, were highlighted as key concerns. The rising popularity of electronic nicotine delivery systems and other sophisticated, attractive devices further intensifies the risk of addiction amongst young people, with long-term consequences for their health and future.

Government Leadership in Tobacco Control

Hon. Anil Kumar Bachoo, Minister of Health and Wellness, reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to combating the tobacco epidemic in Mauritius. He emphasised the government's ongoing preventive measures and cessation programmes, aimed at discouraging tobacco use and supporting those seeking to quit.

The Minister proudly referenced Mauritius’ global recognition in tobacco control, marked by his reception of the WHO Director-General’s Special Recognition Award from Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the 78th World Health Assembly in May 2025.

“We shall leave no stone unturned to make Mauritius a country where no one dies from a preventable disease,” declared Minister Bachoo.

United Nations and WHO Advocacy

Dr. Anne Ancia, WHO Representative in Mauritius, delivered a powerful call to action:

“Don’t be fooled. Resist and say ‘No’ to the insidious tactics of the tobacco industry trying to hook you for good. Say ‘Yes’ to health and to a thriving future—for yourself and for Mauritius.”

Dr. Ancia congratulated Minister Bachoo on receiving the WHO award, describing it as a testament to decades of national commitment in the fight against tobacco. However, she warned against complacency:

“There is no room for complacency. Much more needs to be done to save lives and protect future generations.”

Academic Institutions Join the Fight

Professor Sanjeev Sobhee, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mauritius, underscored tobacco’s dual impact on youth health and financial stability, linking the discussion to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth):

“Have the courage to say no to these deadly products. Think twice before engaging in the use of tobacco and nicotine.”

Ahead of the official launch, an interactive youth forum provided students with insights into the ethical concerns surrounding tobacco marketing, tied to Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Health experts detailed the dangers of tobacco and nicotine use while students explored resistance strategies, shared perspectives on peer pressure, and learned about free tobacco cessation services available across Mauritius.

A Nation Committed to a Healthier Future

Mauritius stands at the forefront of global tobacco control, taking bold steps to protect its youth and safeguard future generations. By rejecting tobacco and nicotine products, the nation is actively shaping a healthier, more sustainable future, fully aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This article is an edited extract of the original article written by Vinoda Vythelingam published on the WHO Africa website.