The Food and Drug Authority (FDA) has organised a comprehensive training workshop focused on enhancing protocols to curb the illegal trading of tobacco.

With support from the World Health Organization and the United Nations Development Plan, stakeholders who converged at the Akanu Joint Border Post were equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to identify, investigate, and prevent the illicit trade of tobacco products.

The Director of the Tobacco and Substance Abuse Directorate, Dr. Olivia A. Boateng, said the workshop was aimed at sensitizing stakeholders about the recently passed law on the illicit trade.

She emphasized the critical role that collaboration plays in combating illicit trade and urged the stakeholders to play their roles to safeguard the country’s market from being flooded with prohibited or illegal products.

She added that critical areas identified in the protocols are to ensure the legitimate supply chain of tobacco products and appropriate prosecution measures.

“To ensure a safe legitimate supply chain for tobacco products, other agencies have a role to play” Dr. Olivia stated.

A Traditional Ruler in Dzodze, Togbui Dei lll, was elated about the two-day workshop and promised to serve as an ambassador and relay the information to his colleague chiefs.

“When I go back, I will share the importance of the training with my colleagues most especially on how to combat tobacco smuggling and how most youth are indulging in the act”, he said.