Solomon Islands marks World No Tobacco Day with renewed efforts to protect youth from tobacco and nicotine addiction
Solomon Islands joined the rest of the world to condemn the harmful tactics of the tobacco industry in luring the youth towards tobacco and nicotine addiction. Held to commemorate World No Tobacco Day, the event was graced by the Honourable Morris Toiraena, Minister of Health and Medical Services, who issued a stern warning to the tobacco industry.
“We see through the mask. We will not be deceived,” said Minister Toiraena. He also dispelled the use of e-cigarettes and flavored nicotine products as cessation tools, warning users not to be fooled. “E-cigarettes, heated tobacco, and flavored nicotine pouches are being pushed as safer alternatives. These are not tools for cessation. They are tools for addiction. We will not allow the tobacco and nicotine industries to disguise addiction as innovation.”
Minister Toiraena reaffirmed the Ministry’s strong commitment to fight the tobacco and nictonie industries and pledged to: (1) strengthen the Tobacco Control Technical Advisory Committee to lead national advocacy efforts, (2) review and update the Tobacco Act 2010, aligning it with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, (3) protect children and young people through education and strict enforcement of bans on advertising, promotion, and sponsorship, (4) promote smoke-free environments in schools, workplaces, and public spaces, (5) prevent industry interference, including rejecting misleading corporate social responsibility campaigns, (6) increase taxes and licensing fees to reduce affordability and consumption, and (7) ensure transparency and accountability, requiring annual reports from all tobacco-related entities.
Dr Sakthivel Selvaraj, WHO Solomon Islands Officer-in-Charge, called for protecting the youth from products and marketing designed to hook them early. Calling for stronger action on flavors, advertising, promotion, and product design that increase appeal. He also urged stringent laws, tougher enforcement, wider community awareness and stronger support for people who want to quit, vowing WHO’s commitment to support the Government in this effort. “Together, let’s unmask the appeal, expose industry’s tactics, and protect the health and future of our children and communities. Remember, the appeal is manufactured, but the harm is real,” said Dr Selvaraj.
In her message to the youth, Dr Tsogzolmaa Bayandorj, WHO Solomon Islands Technical Officer for NCDs said: “Don’t let tobacco marketing confuse you. “Tobacco‑free” doesn’t mean safe, “smooth” doesn’t mean weak. Nicotine is addictive in any form, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you’re trying to quit, speak to your health clinic and health centers about safe and proven options such as patches, gum, and counseling. I urge you all to protect your health and your future by learning the facts.”
Haddasah Dowo, the youth representative, said: “The fight against tobacco is ultimately a fight for freedom—the freedom to live healthier lives, make informed choices, and pursue our dreams without addiction controlling our future. We are the generation that can unmask the appeal and expose the truth. Let us choose health over addiction. Let us choose awareness over deception. Let us choose life over tobacco.”
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