The Cook Islands Health Ministry, known as Te Marae Ora, is set to launch a significant smoke-free campaign next month aimed at four outer islands, officially marking their designation as smoke-free zones. This initiative is the culmination of a five-year project focused on regulating tobacco usage within these communities.
Health Promotion manager Tereapii Tumutoa announced that, effective May 31, local businesses will be prohibited from promoting or selling any tobacco-related products, coinciding with World Tobacco Free Day. He emphasized that the community is already aware of the smoking regulations, particularly in light of the recent ban on vapes enacted last August under the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act 2024.
Mitiaro Island’s executive officer, Anna Roi, confirmed that come May 31, shops on the island will cease the sale of cigarettes, aligning with the national smoke-free campaign. Nevertheless, residents will still have the option to purchase tobacco from Rarotonga or receive it from elsewhere for personal use, though public smoking will be confined to designated areas only.
The initiative’s goal is to protect young people, particularly school students, from the risks associated with tobacco, vaping, and e-cigarettes. Tumutoa highlighted that education plays a crucial role in reducing tobacco usage among youth, stating that focused efforts can generate greater impact by targeting younger generations rather than older individuals.
Following the smoke-free declaration for these islands, the health ministry intends to extend these restrictions to schools and community venues, forming a comprehensive smoke-free environment throughout the region. Tumutoa stated plans for drafting a smoke-free workplace policy, ensuring that all government facilities are included under these regulations.
While the Health Ministry recognizes that they cannot enforce complete cessation of tobacco usage, they remain committed to providing support through cessation programs designed to assist current smokers in quitting.
Looking ahead, there is optimism within the ministry to make Rarotonga and Aitutaki smoke-free by 2030, reflecting a long-term vision for tobacco control within the Cook Islands.
This initiative not only aims to alleviate health risks associated with tobacco but also fosters a healthier generation in the Pacific Islands, promoting a positive outlook for public health enhancement. Such efforts resonate well with global health campaigns aimed at reducing tobacco-related harm and signify the Cook Islands’ commitment to promoting wellness in its communities.
Leave a comment