Tobacco Responsible for Over 146,000 Deaths Annually in Africa — WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a stark warning as tobacco-related deaths in Africa soar, claiming more than 146,000 lives each year across the continent.

According to the WHO’s latest statistics, over 61 million people currently use tobacco products in Africa, with a disturbing increase among adolescents aged 13 to 15 years.

Speaking on World No Tobacco Day 2025, the Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu, sounded the alarm on the tobacco industry’s aggressive tactics aimed squarely at young people.

He explained that tobacco firms are exploiting flavoured products, attractive packaging, and targeted digital marketing campaigns to entice youths, making tobacco appear glamorous and harmless.

“These tactics mask the lethal risks of tobacco, encouraging young Africans to start smoking or using nicotine products, which they find difficult to quit,” Dr Ihekweazu said.

The growing prevalence among teenagers is particularly troubling. “Adolescents’ brains are still developing, making them more susceptible to nicotine addiction and its long-term consequences, including impaired cognitive function, chronic respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and cancer,” the WHO official added.

Dr Ihekweazu called on African governments to urgently implement measures banning flavoured tobacco products and packaging that appeals to youths. He also urged strict regulation of digital advertising and sponsorship on platforms popular among young people.

“Protecting our youth from tobacco is a moral and public health priority,” Dr Ihekweazu emphasised.

“On this World No Tobacco Day, let us renew our commitment to a tobacco-free Africa where young people can grow up healthy, safe, and free from addiction.”

WHO continues to support member states in enforcing tobacco control through the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) and the MPOWER package of measures aimed at reducing tobacco use.

Governments, schools, families, and communities were urged to collaborate in creating environments free from tobacco influence to safeguard the continent’s future generations.