The Chief Medical Officer in the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Satie Kanneh, has stated that the country losses 3,000 people every year because of smoking of tobacco.
He further stated that they will continue to work with organizations that are focused on the fight of eradicating tobacco consumption to help minimise the amount that is imported into the country.
He commended President Julius Maada Bio for signing the Tobacco Nicotine Bill, which condemns tobacco advertisement, promotion and sponsorship amongst others.
He gave tribute to the millions of people who have died from tobacco, and appealed to others to stop the use of tobacco as it is very fatal.
He underscored that they will render help to those who want to quit smoking adding that they will raise awareness on the dangers and health risks of tobacco.
He disclosed that the government will increase taxes on tobacco and make it less available for consumption furthering how there is need to be passionate in the fight against tobacco importation and marketing.
The Chief Medical Officer further encouraged farmers globally to grow food instead of tobacco stating how growing crops will help reduce food crisis in the world.
Representative of WHO, Silassi Amah D’almedia, revealed that about 480,000 people die out of tobacco globally every year further stating how smokers are at greater risk of contracting diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels.
He affirmed that, they will continue to work with the Ministry of Health and Sanitation to support Public Health and economic development in the country.
