2nd Africa Conference on Tobacco Control and Development sets Ambitious Agenda in Accra

A united front against tobacco’s harmful effects was showcased during the 2nd Africa Conference on Tobacco Control and Development, held on November 13-14, 2024. Themed “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures,” the event brought together policymakers, public health advocates, researchers, and youth leaders, all working toward the shared goal of a healthier, tobacco-free Africa.

Organized by the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), in partnership with the Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA) and Youth in Action, and hosted by Ghana’s Ministry of Health, the conference highlighted the urgent need for stronger tobacco control measures across the continent. Discussions covered innovative smoking cessation strategies, the dangers of emerging tobacco products, and the need for sustainable funding.

Key Resolutions and Goals

Participants reached consensus on vital resolutions aimed at advancing tobacco control efforts:

1. Strengthening Policies: African governments were urged to align with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) by implementing stricter bans on emerging tobacco products.
2. Accessible Cessation Programs: Calls were made to establish support systems for smoking cessation, particularly for high-risk groups.
3. Youth Leadership: Young people were recognized as pivotal leaders in the fight against tobacco, with a renewed emphasis on their involvement in advocacy.
4. Sustainable Funding: The conference highlighted the need for innovative financing mechanisms, including tobacco taxes, to ensure long-term public health initiatives.
5. Enhanced Research: Investing in local research to understand tobacco use patterns and emerging threats was prioritized.
6. Countering Industry Influence: Strategies to monitor and counteract tobacco industry tactics were emphasized as critical to the movement’s success.
7. Environmental Health: Promoting alternative livelihoods for tobacco farmers and integrating environmental health considerations into tobacco control strategies were underscored.
8. Collaborative Partnerships: Multi-sectoral cooperation among governments, NGOs, academia, and private entities was deemed essential for strengthening efforts.
9. Accountability Measures: Participants stressed the importance of robust frameworks for monitoring, evaluating, and ensuring the accountability of tobacco control initiatives.
10. Capacity Building: Sustained efforts to develop capacity in tobacco control across the continent were highlighted as a cornerstone for long-term progress.

Commitment to Action

The conference concluded with a resounding commitment from attendees to push forward the resolutions, urging African governments, regional organizations, and civil society to integrate these goals into broader development frameworks. Participants celebrated the collaborative spirit that defined the event and expressed gratitude to Ghana for hosting the landmark gathering.

As Africa continues to face the challenges posed by tobacco-related diseases, the resolutions from this conference mark a significant step toward a future where public health is prioritized, and lives are saved from preventable harm. The vision of a tobacco-free Africa grows stronger, driven by the shared resolve of its advocates.

By Evelyn Naadu Borquaye || ghananewsonline.com.gh