Mauritius commemorated World No-Tobacco Day on 02 June 2025, engaging nursing, medical, and university students in a campaign aimed at raising awareness about the tobacco industry’s evolving marketing tactics—particularly those targeting young people. The event sought to alert the youth to the dangers of new nicotine products and strategies designed to initiate addiction and promote harmful smoking habits.
Participants were warned about flavoured tobacco and nicotine products, which are engineered to reduce the harshness of tobacco and increase its appeal. Special attention was drawn to the rise of electronic nicotine delivery systems and other sophisticated, attractive devices that are aggressively marketed to young people, luring them into addiction at the expense of their health and future.
Minister of Health and Wellness, Hon. Anil Kumar Bachoo, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to combating the tobacco epidemic in Mauritius. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to prevent smoking initiation and to support those seeking to quit. The Minister proudly referenced the WHO Director-General’s Special Recognition Award, which he received from Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus at the 78th World Health Assembly in May 2025, acknowledging Mauritius’ global leadership in tobacco control.
“We shall leave no stone unturned to make Mauritius a country where no one dies from a preventable disease,” declared Minister Bachoo.
Dr. Anne Ancia, WHO Representative in Mauritius, addressed the audience with a powerful message:
“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 cautioned that “the battle is not yet won” and emphasized the importance of full enforcement of the new legislation:
“There is no room for complacency. Much more needs to be done to save lives and protect future generations.”
In his opening remarks, Professor Sanjeev Sobhee, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mauritius, spoke about the dual impact of tobacco on young people—both in terms of health and finances. He encouraged students to:
“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 was held where health experts presented the dangers of tobacco and nicotine use and the latest industry marketing strategies. Students shared their perspectives, discussed how to resist peer pressure, and learned about free tobacco cessation services available across the island.
