BY WISDOM OUMA | 5484 MEDIA | KENYA
STORY HIGHLIGHTS
- Health advocates warn nicotine products are increasingly targeting children and teenagers.
- Campaigners accuse the tobacco industry of lobbying against proposed tobacco control reforms.
- Kenya loses hundreds of millions of dollars annually to tobacco-related illness and lost productivity.
Public health advocates in Kenya are urging lawmakers to fast-track the Tobacco Control Amendment Bill 2024, warning that a new generation is being exposed to nicotine addiction through e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches and other emerging products.
Speaking during World No Tobacco Day celebrations in Embu County, health experts, government officials and civil society groups said aggressive marketing and industry lobbying threaten efforts to strengthen tobacco regulation.
The campaign comes as global health agencies raise concerns about the growing appeal of flavored nicotine products among young people.
Concerns Over Nicotine Products in Schools
Health officials say nicotine products are increasingly finding their way into schools and universities, often disguised as everyday items such as highlighters, flash drives or toys.
Caleb Mbugua of the International Institute for Legislative Affairs (IILA) said research indicates some children are being exposed to tobacco products at increasingly young ages.
The World Health Organization’s Kenya representative, Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo, warned that attractive packaging and flavored products are making nicotine more appealing to young users.
“We need to protect youth from exposure and access by creating safe environments that shield them from nicotine and tobacco products,” she said.
Industry Tactics Under Scrutiny
The Kenya Tobacco Control Alliance (KETCA) accused tobacco companies of using third-party groups and public campaigns to oppose proposed reforms.
KETCA chairman Joel Gitali said advocates must remain vigilant against efforts to normalize nicotine use among young people.
The 2026 World No Tobacco Day theme, “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products,” focuses on exposing marketing strategies designed to attract new users.
Proposed Reforms Target Flavoured Products
The Tobacco Control Amendment Bill 2024 proposes a range of measures aimed at reducing youth uptake of nicotine products.
The proposals include banning characterizing flavours, prohibiting disposable e-cigarettes and increasing mandatory pictorial health warnings on packaging.
Campaigners are also calling for higher tobacco taxes in line with World Health Organization recommendations, arguing that higher prices can help reduce youth consumption.
Economic and Health Costs
Health experts say tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable disease, including cancers affecting the lungs, mouth and throat.
According to campaigners, Kenya loses between US$544 million and US$756 million annually through tobacco-related healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Officials say the proposed reforms are intended not only to reduce smoking rates but also to prevent a new generation from becoming dependent on nicotine products marketed as safer alternatives.
As Parliament considers the legislation, health advocates argue that delaying action risks exposing more children and young adults to long-term addiction and its consequences.
