On the sidelines of the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Andrew Black, Acting Head of the Secretariat of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, praised Côte d’Ivoire’s “exceptional progress” in tobacco control, describing the country as a “global leader” in the field.

This statement was made on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, during an audience granted by Pierre N’Gou Dimba, Minister of Health, Public Hygiene and Universal Health Coverage. The meeting provided an opportunity to review Côte d’Ivoire’s progress in implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and to discuss future cooperation with the Convention Secretariat.

During the discussions, the Minister presented key reforms undertaken under the leadership of President Alassane Ouattara to strengthen tobacco control and protect public health.

He highlighted several major measures, including the strengthening of the legal and regulatory framework, an increase in tobacco taxation to 70%, the gradual implementation of a tobacco product traceability system, and reinforced awareness and enforcement actions.

He also announced the upcoming introduction of plain packaging for tobacco products, a major measure aimed at reducing the attractiveness of cigarettes, particularly among young people.

The Minister emphasized that tobacco control remains a major public health priority due to its serious health impacts, including cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses.

He further stressed the government’s commitment to accelerating reforms and continuing resource mobilization to sustain tobacco control policies.

The WHO Framework Convention Secretariat representative praised Côte d’Ivoire for hosting a regional workshop in Abidjan on combating illicit tobacco trade, its progress in taxation policies, its strengthened regulatory framework, and its commitment to plain packaging.

WHO officials also encouraged Côte d’Ivoire to continue its leadership role at both African and international levels by sharing its experience with other countries in the region.

This meeting once again highlights Côte d’Ivoire’s commitment, under President Alassane Ouattara’s vision, to making public health and population protection a national priority.