There is a call for higher taxes on cigarettes as part of stronger national efforts to reduce tobacco use and ease the burden on Fiji’s health system.
Macuata’s education adviser Salesi Delai said stronger policy action was needed alongside community awareness to address the long-term impacts of smoking.
Mr Delai said tobacco control required a combined approach involving Government, communities and health stakeholders.
“There must be stronger measures if we are serious about protecting our people from the harms of tobacco,” he said.
Increasing the price of cigarettes through taxation, he said, would discourage young people from starting smoking and reduce overall consumption.
“There is a call for higher taxes on cigarettes so that we can reduce access and discourage the next generation from taking up smoking.”
He said there was also need to expand smoke-free environments in public spaces, including community venues.
“Smoke-free areas must be respected and enforced if we want to protect non-smokers, especially children and families who attend public gatherings.
He said packaging reforms were also necessary, adding that cigarette packets should clearly reflect the health risks associated with smoking.
“Warning labels should not be soft. They must clearly show the reality of what tobacco does to the human body.”
He said ongoing awareness campaigns in villages were helping to shift attitudes, but a more sustained effort was required to create lasting behavioural change.
“Education at the village level is important, but it must be supported by laws and enforcement.”
He said collective responsibility was key in addressing tobacco use across communities.
“If we work together, the Government, chiefs, parents and young people, we can build a healthier Fiji free from tobacco-related harm.”
He was speaking at the World Tobacco Day commemoration at Vunivutu Village in Macuata recently.
The event formed part of World No Tobacco Day commemorations.
