Being Africa

#MyReflections on the 2nd Africa Conference on Tobacco Control and Development (#ACTD2024) in Accra, Ghana First, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to The African Capacity Building Foundation, The Center for Tobacco Control in Africa (#CTCA), and Y-ACT Youth In Action for orchestrating such an impactful conference. The theme “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures” sparked invaluable discussions about securing Africa’s future while addressing the challenges of effective tobacco control on the continent. Several key topics resonated with me, especially the importance of securing sustainable funding for tobacco control & public health, the lack of locally sourced data, enhancing monitoring of the tobacco industry, and ensuring that youth actively participate in tobacco control advocacy throughout Africa. With projections indicating that tobacco use in Africa may exceed 84 million by 2025—just around the corner—immediate and decisive action is imperative. Young people, who comprise over 75% of Africa’s population, are increasingly being targeted by the tobacco industry. It’s concerning to note that 90% of the funding for tobacco control in Africa is reliant on donors, raising significant questions about sustainability. The limited funding for tobacco control presents a formidable barrier to tackling the impending tobacco epidemic among our youth. I was particularly struck by a case study from Asia presented by Ms. Bungon Ritthiphakdee, Director of the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) The Thai Health Funding model serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that Africa can pursue sustainable health funding through prioritizing tobacco control—this entails ensuring adequate budget allocations, robust tobacco taxation measures, & holding industry players accountable. The call to THINK BIG! regarding health funding as a vital resource for Health Ministries was timely & necessary. The rising risk to Africa’s young population calls for urgent action. Dr. Catherine Egbe’s insightful ideas on #TobaccoEndGame offered a compelling roadmap that will require coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to bring it to fruition. Generating local evidence will be crucial in this endeavor. Likewise, Prof. Lekan Ayo-Yusuf’s passionate plea for the institutionalization of tobacco control to safeguard against industry interference was truly inspiring. Establishing solid legal frameworks and fostering cross-sector collaboration among key government ministries—such as health, trade, agriculture, and finance—will be essential in protecting governments from tobacco industry influence. Furthermore, the reminder for governments to stay alert to the #HarmReduction narrative was timely, especially as more young people are falling prey to the tobacco industry’s misleading claims of reduced harm. I left Ghana feeling more optimistic about a #TobaccoFreeAfrica. Together, we can achieve this goal. Being Africa: #ConnectingTheDots in #NCD advocacy.

#ACTD2024 Very well captured 👌🏼

Over the past decade, I’ve dedicated myself to advocating for policies that safeguard the public from the dangers of tobacco and nicotine use. My primary focus has been on training, research, and crafting communication strategies, all while harnessing technology to bolster our advocacy initiatives. I am incredibly thankful to the kenya tobacco control alliance, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, the African Tobacco Control Alliance, and many others for significantly shaping my journey in public health advocacy. This invaluable experience has enhanced my abilities as an advocate, which I now bring to Being Africa, where we're passionately #ConnectingTheDots in #NCD advocacy through rigorous research and community engagement. As we kick off the 2nd Africa Tobacco Control Conference in Accra, Ghana, I’m not only excited to reunite with colleagues but also for the opportunity to share insights on “The Implications of Implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) on Tobacco Control Policies in the Southern Africa Region,” courtesy of ACBF PACT My talk will address the challenges and opportunities this flagship African Union program presents in strengthening tobacco control across our region. With countries across the continent rapidly advancing toward building regional development and economic blocs and common markets, there’s an urgent need for harmonizing tobacco tax policies, fortifying regulatory frameworks, and adopting unified strategies to bolster public health.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a critical time to highlight the impact of lung cancer, which remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed late, when treatment options are limited. Raising awareness of early detection, recognizing symptoms like persistent coughs or chest pain, and reducing exposure to risk factors such as smoking and air pollutants can save lives. Let’s work together this month to empower individuals with information and encourage proactive health choices. #LungCancerAwareness #OurReasonForBeing Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) American Cancer Society

When organizations come together, we create a stronger, unified force against cancer. Partnerships enable us to reach more people, bridging gaps in access to screening and health services that save lives. Together, we amplify awareness campaigns, foster better understanding, and empower communities with the knowledge and resources they need to take charge of their health. Through collaboration, we can reduce the barriers that prevent many from seeking preventive care, driving forward the mission of early detection and healthier futures. United, we’re a powerful force for change. #UnitedAgainstCancer #OurReasonForBeing. Africa Cancer Foundation Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) American Cancer Society

Community Health Promoters (CHPs) play a vital role in empowering women to take action against cervical cancer. As frontline health advocates, #CHPs reach into the heart of our communities, bringing life-saving knowledge to where it's needed most. Equipping them with the right tools and information isn’t just an investment, it's a commitment to ending #cervicalcancer for good. Every informed woman is a step closer to a world free from this preventable disease. #HerReasonForBeing International Gynecologic Cancer Society Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) American Cancer Society

Education and awareness are powerful tools in the fight against cervical and other cancers. By informing communities about prevention, early detection, and treatment options, we empower individuals to take control of their health. Through digital advocacy, we bridge the knowledge gap, dispel myths and misinformation, ensuring critical cancer information reaches those who need it most. Our mission is to #Inspire action, #Inform communities, and #Involve everyone in the fight against NCDs. Together, we can build a future where awareness leads to action, and no one faces cancer alone. #OurReasonForBeing. International Gynecologic Cancer Society Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) American Cancer Society World Ovarian Cancer Coalition

Being Africa is thrilled to participate in the ongoing #IGCS2024 in Dublin, where we highlighted our impactful journey in the fight against cervical cancer. Our efforts focus on driving awareness, advocating for policy changes, and empowering communities to take action. By sharing experiences, challenges, and successes, we aim to inspire a united front in the global fight against cervical cancer. Through collaborations and partnerships, we strive to amplify our message and achieve sustainable progress, ensuring every woman has a fair chance at a life free from preventable gynecological cancers. #HerReasonForBeing International Gynecologic Cancer Society Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) American Cancer Society World Ovarian Cancer Coalition

This World Mental Health Day, let's unite to break the silence surrounding mental health. In a world where stress and anxiety are common, it’s crucial to remember that your mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. By prioritizing self-care, empathy, and fostering open, judgment-free conversations, we can create a culture of understanding and support. Together, we can build a more compassionate, mentally healthy society for everyone. Let's lead the change. #OurReasonForBeing #WorldMentalHealthDay2024

Ovarian cancer can be challenging to detect due to its subtle symptoms, which are often mistaken for less serious conditions. Common signs include persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, changes in appetite, and increased urinary urgency. Women may also experience fatigue or difficulty eating. Early detection is crucial, as ovarian cancer can progress quickly. Regular check-ups and staying attuned to your body’s changes are essential for timely intervention. Awareness of these symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. #HerReasonForBeing International Gynecologic Cancer Society Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) American Cancer Society