Kenya’s Health Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, has announced plans to tighten tobacco control laws, aligning them with international standards. This move comes amid growing concerns over the health risks posed by tobacco use, including cancer, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular conditions.
During a meeting with a World Health Organization (WHO) delegation led by Dr. Abdourahmane Diallo, Duale emphasized Kenya’s commitment to modernizing its tobacco control framework. The discussions focused on proposed amendments to the Tobacco Control Bill, which seek to strengthen regulations on production, sale, advertising, and consumption of tobacco products. These changes aim to curb tobacco-related harm and reduce its economic burden on the healthcare system.
A key highlight of the meeting was the WHO’s pledge to support Kenya in enhancing its national laboratory capacity for independent verification of tobacco products. This initiative will ensure better oversight and compliance with health standards. Duale also requested WHO’s assistance in reviewing the Tobacco Control Act (2007) and its regulations to address emerging challenges, such as new nicotine products and illicit trade.
To improve enforcement, Duale called for county-level collaboration, including updated inspection protocols, capacity building for local authorities, and integrating tobacco control into Kenya’s digital health superhighway. This approach will streamline monitoring and enforcement efforts across the country.
The WHO commended Kenya for its progress, particularly the transition of over 9,000 farmers from tobacco farming to alternative crops like high-iron beans. This shift supports both health and economic sustainability, reducing reliance on a harmful industry.
Duale reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, stressing the government’s duty to uphold citizens’ right to health. With strong partnerships and updated legislation, Kenya is poised to make significant strides in reducing tobacco use and its devastating health impacts.
This development marks a crucial step in Kenya’s public health strategy, demonstrating its resolve to protect future generations from the dangers of tobacco.
