Government launches five‑year push to steer Maldivians away from tobacco

The government has announced a five‑year national campaign aimed at reducing tobacco use across the Maldives.

Health Minister Geela Ali made the announcement on Sunday at a joint press conference held by four ministries to mark World No Tobacco Day 2026, which is being observed under the global theme “Unmask the Appeal.”

Geela said one in four Maldivians smokes, and noted that the administration has already taken “major steps” to curb tobacco and nicotine addiction, including the generational tobacco ban introduced last year for those born in 2007 and later, and the ban on the possession and use of vapes at the end of 2023.

“These measures have been taken in the interest of the people,” she said.

Geela also stated that 84 percent of deaths in the Maldives are caused by harms linked to tobacco use.  

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However, according to official health data, the 84 percent figure refers to all deaths caused by Non‑Communicable Diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases. Tobacco use is a major risk factor for these conditions, but it does not directly account for 84 percent of all deaths.

She said the new national campaign will run for the next five years with the aim of further reducing tobacco use, and called on the public and civil society organisations to support the effort.

Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu said all schools in the Maldives will begin providing information to students, teachers and families about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine products in the coming days.

This year’s World No Tobacco Day messaging, shared by the President’s Office, the Health Ministry and the First Lady, emphasises protecting children and young people from nicotine addiction and building a tobacco‑free future.