The Western Regional Office of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has taken steps to educate school children in the Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal area about the dangers of tobacco and substance abuse.

The aim is to equip these children with the necessary knowledge to make informed choices as they grow up.

Ms Ivy Dorinda Essien, a Regulatory Officer, highlighted the harmful effects of various substances on human beings during the engagement with the students. The focus was on educating them about different types of substances and discouraging their usage.

Mr Solomon Boni, the Public Relations Officer of the FDA, emphasized the global campaign's objective to raise awareness about alternative crop production and marketing opportunities for tobacco farmers. He encouraged them to consider cultivating sustainable and nutritious crops instead.

The campaign also aimed to shed light on the tobacco industry's attempts to undermine efforts to replace tobacco cultivation with sustainable crops, which contributes to the global food crisis.

As part of the World No Tobacco Day activities, nearly 800 schoolchildren from the Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal area were involved in these educational sessions. The theme for the day was “We Need Food Not Tobacco,” emphasizing the importance of prioritizing food production over tobacco consumption.

Additionally, the FDA assured the public of its commitment to market surveillance to protect consumers from the presence of harmful products in the market. This effort ensures that individuals have access to safe and wholesome commodities.