SEVERAL sport associations across the country have applauded the president’s effort to ban the importation of vaping.
A release from the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) stated, ‘The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) welcomes and commends the Government of Guyana, led by His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, for its announced decision to restrict the importation of vaping devices and related products. This represents an important step towards protecting public health, particularly the well-being of children and young people.
Young people are especially vulnerable to the appeal of these products. Attractive packaging, flavours and promotion can encourage experimentation at an impressionable age, without a full understanding of the potential consequences.’
The Guyana Cricket Board said, ‘The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) welcomes and strongly supports the decision announced by His Excellency, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to introduce restrictions on the importation of vaping products into Guyana.
The GCB views this intervention as a timely and proactive measure in addressing a growing public health concern, particularly among young people and athletes.
The increasing prevalence of vaping has become a serious concern within the cricketing fraternity, both locally and internationally, with the potential to undermine the health, physical fitness, discipline and overall development of our young sportsmen and sportswomen.’
The Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) said, ‘The protection of our kids and young people is critical to them achieving their full potential not only in sports but also in their families, society and indeed our nation. As His Excellency noted, this national move is aimed at controlling the unregulated importation, sale and use of vaping products, particularly among schoolchildren and teenagers, and is intended to safeguard public health while allowing for approved medicinal and therapeutic applications.’
The Guyana Table Tennis Association said, ‘As a sporting organization, the GTTA believes that encouraging healthy lifestyles goes hand in hand with developing sporting talent. Table tennis and other sports provide positive avenues for young people to build confidence, discipline, friendships and lifelong healthy habits.
The Association calls on parents, teachers, coaches, businesses and all citizens to give this initiative their fullest support. We urge compliance with the restrictions as they take effect and encourage citizens to report suspected unlawful importation or sale through the appropriate authorities.’
The Guyana Tennis Association said, ‘This intervention is well measured and contributes significantly to safeguarding the health, well-being, longevity, and quality of life of athletes, children, and the wider Guyanese population.
Medical experts have concluded that vaping significantly impairs athletic performance and physical health by reducing oxygen delivery to muscles, lowering cardiovascular endurance, and hindering post-training recovery. Additionally, vaping affects concentration, cognitive functions, and sleep quality which are key elements for athletes to unlock their maximum potential.’
The GBBFF (Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation) said, “As a national sporting organisation committed to physical excellence, healthy living and the development of our nation’s youth, the GBBFF maintains that public health and physical fitness are inseparable pillars of national development. We recognise that protecting young people from harmful and addictive substances is not merely a health priority, but a national responsibility. The Federation therefore welcomes this measure as a meaningful step towards preserving the health of Guyanese, reducing preventable health risks and fostering a culture of wellness, discipline and healthy choices. A healthier generation means stronger athletes, stronger communities and ultimately a stronger Guyana.”
The Guyana Badminton Association said, “The Guyana Badminton Association fully supports the Government of Guyana in taking this important step to protect our young people from the dangers associated with vaping. As a sporting organisation, we have a responsibility not only to develop talented athletes but also to nurture healthy, disciplined and responsible individuals who can positively contribute to society.
Sports play a vital role in keeping our youths engaged in meaningful activities and away from harmful habits. We must work collectively with the Government, parents, teachers, coaches and all stakeholders to educate our young people about the dangers of vaping and encourage them to make healthier lifestyle choices.”
