On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, during a workshop of the National Tobacco Control Program (PNLT) in Yamoussoukro, one voice resonated louder than the others: that of Nannan De Gaye Kwayo . Chief of the village of Njessi, he set aside his customary authority for the duration of a story to recount his descent into the hell of tobacco addiction and his rebirth.

From three packs a day to a salutary shock

For nearly two decades, Nannan De Gaye Kwayo lived under the influence of nicotine. With a daily consumption exceeding three packs of cigarettes , he describes himself as a veritable "volcano." But this constant burning eventually consumed his own health.

The breaking point comes one morning, marked by such a violent bout of illness that he nearly falls out of bed. The medical emergency then becomes a reflection of his excess:

"After a scan, the doctors were unequivocal: my condition had deteriorated significantly. The verdict was swift and decisive: it was either immediate cessation or death."

14 years of freedom: "It's not that complicated"

Faced with the threat of an untimely death, the village chief chose life. Today, with 14 years of hindsight , he dispels the common misconception that quitting smoking is an insurmountable obstacle. For him, the secret lies in a simple equation: a firm decision coupled with faith.

Far from being a mere wishful thought, his approach is that of a man who has regained his full health and who now wishes to see his constituents and fellow citizens follow in his footsteps.

An urgent appeal to Ivorian youth

Beyond his personal situation, the chief of Njessi offers a clear-eyed and concerned perspective on contemporary society. He denounces a paradox: increased awareness coupled with the still all-too-easy accessibility of tobacco.

His message to young people is intended as a cry of alarm against the spiral of addiction:

1. Physical destruction: Tobacco doesn't help you move forward, it eats away at you.
2. The social barrier: Dependency paralyzes positive life plans.
3. The gateway: Smoking too often leads to harder drugs.

Already collaborating with law enforcement to clean up neighborhoods, Nannan De Gaye Kwayo urges every Ivorian to become an advocate for raising awareness. Because if a "volcano" could be extinguished only to rise again, anyone can achieve the same.