Fatshimetrie, September 26, 2024 – In the heart of Kinshasa, a commendable initiative was set up by the Congolese Alliance for Tobacco Control and Other Drug Addictions (ACCT) to raise awareness among young people about the dangers of smoking. This association, fully committed to preventing the harm associated with tobacco consumption, organized an awareness day to enlighten young people about the risks of this harmful habit.
Jacquemin Mvilambinsiku, the ACCT Coordinator, emphasizes the importance of providing information to young people so that they are aware of the harmful effects of tobacco on their health and lifestyle. He emphasizes the essential role of education and the transmission of knowledge to effectively combat the scourge of smoking. Indeed, by raising awareness among young members of the association, the objective is to encourage them to become information relays to other young people in turn, to extend this collective awareness.
Furthermore, Mr. Mvilambinsiku announced the upcoming implementation of training for police officers, most of whom are smokers, to help them find solutions and support to quit smoking. This gesture demonstrates the ACCT’s commitment to involving different sectors of society in the fight against smoking.
By integrating tobacco control into all health zones, the ACCT aims to promote the creation of smoke-free spaces, thereby contributing to promoting a healthier environment for all. Jacquemin Mvilambinsiku’s call for strong political will to support these actions underlines the need for mobilization of all stakeholders to effectively combat the harmful effects of tobacco.
Beyond its local action, the ACCT actively collaborates with the Congolese government, through the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare, as well as other international organizations, to carry out concerted actions in the field of tobacco control and drug addiction. This cross-cutting and collaborative approach strengthens the impact of the actions undertaken and underlines the importance of coordinating efforts to achieve significant results in the prevention and awareness of the risks associated with tobacco consumption.
Ultimately, the commitment of the ACCT and its partners demonstrates that awareness, education and mobilization of society as a whole are essential levers for combating smoking and promoting healthy and responsible lifestyles. Tobacco control is a major public health issue that requires continuous and concerted action to protect the population from the dangers of tobacco and its harmful consequences on health.