Gov’t drafting a five-year master plan to control usage of tobacco

Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim has revealed that efforts are underway to establish a five-year master plan, with the primary objective of controlling tobacco usage in the country. The decision to make the plan was announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, aiming to ensure that all works under this initiative are well-planned and implemented in an orderly manner.

Speaking at a press conference, Minister Nazim stated that the plan was being formulated in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO). The minister stated that efforts were also being exerted to seek the opinions of other relevant authorities and the residents when drafting the plan. Aiming to increase public engagement, he disclosed that tobacco control works will be implemented in islands under the leadership of local councils.

President Dr. Muizzu decided that the master plan will outline the introduction of a prize for those actively involved in creating a tobacco-free society, and islands which are free from tobacco use. It will also include the provision of financial assistance for social initiatives, for the islands which receive the award. Additionally, the president decided to provide tobacco cessation treatments from a health centre on each island, free of charge.

While the government has decided to draft a master plan, it has also been conducting a campaign against tobacco usage, under the name, “Dhafaraa”. The campaign has been conducted in Noonu Atoll, Thaa Atoll, Laamu Atoll and Seenu Atoll, up to date. the government has been exerting several efforts to control and minimise the usage of tobacco and related products.