Africa Region Tobacco Control Champions Recognized through World No Tobacco Day Awar...

31 May - World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) brings together governments, health organizations, civil society, and young people across the globe in a shared commitment to end the tobacco epidemic and protect future generations. The 2026 theme, "Unmasking the appeal - Countering nicotine and tobacco addiction," highlights the urgent need to shield young people from increasingly sophisticated industry tactics designed to promote addiction. Across the African Region, the campaign calls for strengthened regulation, closure of policy gaps, and decisive action to safeguard populations, especially youth, from the harms of tobacco and nicotine products.

Campaign Focus for 2026

The WNTD 2026 campaign emphasizes:

• Exposing industry tactics: Raising awareness of emerging strategies, including the use of synthetic nicotine, nicotine salts, and other innovations that increase addiction while appearing modern and appealing.
• Strengthening policy action: Advocating for comprehensive measures such as bans on flavours, advertising and promotion (including digital platforms), and regulation of packaging and product design that attract young users.
• Empowering communities: Equipping the public, particularly youth, with knowledge and tools to resist manipulation, prevent initiation, and access evidence-based cessation support.

Recognizing Excellence in the African Region

Each year, the World Health Organization (WHO) honours individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to tobacco control at national and regional levels. For the 2026 World No Tobacco Day Awards, nominations were open from 17 October 2025 to 13 February 2026. In the African Region, 14 nominations were received and rigorously reviewed by the DPC Cluster Selection Committee in line with WHO guidelines. Following this process, five exceptional candidates were selected as award recipients representing the WHO African Region.

2026 Award Winners - WHO African Region

Professor Catherine O. Egbe

Chief Specialist Scientist, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa

Professor Egbe has made significant contributions to advancing tobacco control through research, policy influence, advocacy, and capacity building. Her work played a key role in shaping South Africa's Tobacco Control Bill by ensuring the integration of strong, evidence-based provisions. She has also strengthened the research landscape by mentoring emerging scientists and supporting evidence generation for legislative processes. Her leadership has enhanced policymaking, increased public awareness of tobacco harms, and safeguarded policy integrity against industry interference.

Dr Louise Mapleh Kpoto

Minister of Health, Republic of Liberia

Dr Kpoto has demonstrated transformative leadership in tobacco control through bold policy decisions and legal reform. Her nationwide ban on shisha addressed a significant public health concern targeting youth and closed key regulatory gaps. She further directed that the country adopts a stand-alone Tobacco Control Bill, which will strengthen enforcement mechanisms, and foster multisectoral collaboration.

Professor Olalekan Ayo-Yusuf

School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, South Africa

Professor Ayo-Yusuf has advanced tobacco control through high-impact research, advocacy, and global policy engagement. His work has exposed tobacco industry interference and strengthened protections for evidence-based policymaking. As a technical advisor and global contributor, including through WHO's TobReg, he has supported stronger regulatory frameworks and product standards. His leadership has also enhanced regional capacity to monitor industry tactics and advocate effectively for public health protection.

Dr Nare Narcisse Mathurin

Public Health Specialist, Ministry of Health, Burkina Faso

Dr Nare has played a central role in strengthening Burkina Faso's tobacco control landscape through comprehensive legislation and institutional reforms. He led the adoption of national tobacco control laws, implementing regulations, and policies addressing illicit trade. His work has introduced smoke-free environments, plain packaging, product traceability, and improved regulatory systems. These reforms have enhanced enforcement, ensured compliance, and aligned national efforts with international tobacco control standards.

Nigeria Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB)

Nigeria

The NFVCB has demonstrated groundbreaking leadership by integrating tobacco control into Nigeria's entertainment industry regulation. In October 2024, the Board implemented the National Film and Video Censors Board Regulations, 2024, which prohibit the promotion and glamorization of tobacco and nicotine products in films, music videos, and skits, particularly those aimed at young audiences. By embedding these measures into content classification systems, the NFVCB has strengthened enforcement, reshaped industry practices, and contributed significantly to protecting youth from harmful exposure.

Advancing a Tobacco-Free Future in Africa

The achievements of the 2026 awardees underscore the African Region's growing leadership in advancing comprehensive, evidence-based tobacco control. Their work demonstrates the impact of strong policies, strategic advocacy, and sustained commitment to public health. As the Region continues to confront evolving tobacco and nicotine challenges, these champions serve as powerful examples of progress and inspiration for ongoing action.

For More Information

Dr William K. Maina
Tobacco Control Programme
Health Promotion, Determinants of Health and Tobacco Control (HPT)
WHO Regional Office for Africa