Angola reinforces its commitment to a tobacco-free future

Angola marked World No Tobacco Day with a national campaign that included a symbolic march attended by representatives of the Government, the United Nations system, the diplomatic corps, institutional partners, civil society, and, in particular, young people.

The initiative reaffirmed the collective commitment to protecting public health and building a healthier future for generations to come. Under the global slogan "Unmasking the Appeal - Combating Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction", the march highlighted the urgent need to expose the strategies used by the tobacco industry to make its products more attractive, particularly among young people, as well as to step up prevention and control measures.

During the ceremony, the Angolan Government, represented by the Secretary of State for Health for the Hospital Sector, Dr. Leonardo Europeu, emphasized the importance of making this date a true turning point.

"This date is not only a moment for global reflection, but also a call to action. In Angola, we have made an unwavering commitment to reverse this trend, protecting public health and promoting sustainable development."

The mobilization takes place against a backdrop where national data reveal both progress and significant challenges. According to the Multiple Indicator and Health Survey (IIMS), the prevalence of tobacco use in Angola stands at between 14% and 14.3% among men and between 1.8% and 2% among women aged between 15 and 49. However, of particular concern is the significant increase in consumption among men aged 45 to 49, which stands at 25%, highlighting the risk of progression over a lifetime and the need to strengthen early prevention.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Angola, Armanda Mukwachi, emphasized the collective and strategic importance of the march, warning of new ways of promoting the consumption of nicotine products presented as modern and less harmful, but which continue to pose a high risk of addiction.

"Today, we walked together not only for our health, but also for a stronger future for Angola. Every step taken is a step against addiction and in favor of life and the future of our young people."

Angola has made significant progress in the fight against tobacco use, in line with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Key measures include a ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces, restrictions on tobacco advertising, and the strengthening of fiscal policy.

A significant breakthrough was achieved by increasing the tax rate on tobacco products from 10% to 50% and allocating 60% of these revenues to the health sector, thereby transforming tobacco taxes into direct investment in prevention, treatment, and health promotion.

These measures reflect the recognition that effective public policies must be accompanied by active societal engagement. During the march, the Government of Angola and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying efforts to reduce tobacco consumption, promote healthy environments, and ensure a longer and more productive life for all Angolans.