The Public Aid Organization concluded an initiative titled “Cigarettes Are Not Toys” in Aqrah District in response to the growing phenomenon of smoking among children and adolescents. The initiative was launched following a field survey that revealed some children view smoking as a symbol of masculinity, without real awareness of its health and social risks.
As part of the effort, an official letter was submitted to the District Commissioner requesting governmental support, which was met with a positive response. Effective coordination followed with the Directorate of Education, Health Department, Police Department, Asayish forces, and local shop owners, aiming to prevent the sale of cigarettes to minors and to intensify awareness campaigns in schools and markets. The initiative’s activities included field visits to shops, where many shop owners expressed their support and pledged not to sell cigarettes to children.
