BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Solomon Islands has reaffirmed its commitment to protect young people from tobacco and nicotine addiction, with Health Minister Morris Toiraena warning that the tobacco industry is using new products to attract a new generation of users.
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) media release, the Minister delivered the message during Solomon Islands’ commemoration of World No Tobacco Day 2026 on June 8, held under the global theme, “Unmasking the appeal, revealing tobacco’s many health harms”.
In the statement, Mr Toiraena cautioned the public against being misled by claims that e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products and flavoured nicotine pouches are safer alternatives to smoking.
“We see through the mask. We will not be deceived,” the Minister said.
He said the products are being promoted as safer alternatives but warns that they continue to fuel nicotine addiction.
“E-cigarettes, heated tobacco and flavoured nicotine pouches are being pushed as safer alternatives. These are not tools for cessation. They are tools for addiction,” Mr Toiraena said.
The Minister reaffirms the Ministry of Health and Medical Services’ (MHMS) commitment to strengthen tobacco control measures across the country.
Also noted in the statement is that the Government plans to strengthen the Tobacco Control Technical Advisory Committee, review the Tobacco Act 2010 to align it with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and strengthen enforcement of bans on tobacco advertising, promotion and sponsorship.
Other priorities include promoting smoke-free schools, workplaces and public spaces, preventing tobacco industry interference in public health policies, increasing tobacco taxes and licensing fees, and requiring annual reporting from tobacco-related businesses to improve transparency and accountability.
The statement said the World No Tobacco Day event highlighted the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products while reinforcing Solomon Islands’ commitment to reduce tobacco use and protect future generations from addiction.
Photo credit: WHO Media
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
