Kenya Marks World No Tobacco Day with Milestones in Tobacco Control
Nairobi, Kenya - 27th May 2024 - On 31st May 2024, the Ministry of Health’s State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards will lead other government agencies, civil society, and partners in the commemoration of World No Tobacco Day (WNTD).
Activities will include celebrating Kenya’s progress in combating tobacco use, showcasing new graphic health warnings, providing updates on the Tobacco Control Act review, and launching a report on the morbidity, mortality, and economic implications of tobacco use in Kenya. Kenya has made significant strides in tobacco control, including the implementation of stringent regulations and policies aimed at reducing tobacco use.
Key achievements include the establishment of a multi-sector task force to investigate novel nicotine and other emerging tobacco products, with recommendations currently being implemented.
According to Ms Mary Muthoni Muriuki, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, Kenya continues to enforce the Tobacco Control Act of 2007, which mandates graphic health warnings on cigarette packages and bans smoking in public places.
However, she noted in a press statement on May 27, that despite a decline in tobacco use from 12% in 2014 to 9% in 2022, Kenya now faces new challenges with the rapid proliferation of Novel Nicotine and Emerging Tobacco Products (NNETPs), such as nicotine pouches, vapes, and electronic cigarettes.
These products are often marketed as less harmful alternatives to traditional cigarettes and target young people with appealing flavors and misleading health claims.
The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with development partners and civil society organizations, aims to leverage WNTD 2024 to increase awareness of the dangers associated with both conventional tobacco products and NNETPs. Key objectives include highlighting public health risks, exposing industry tactics, and reinforcing policy commitment.