The Ministry of Health has officially gazetted the third batch of Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs) under the Tobacco Control Act, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to reducing tobacco use and protecting public health. The new batch includes updated images and pictogrammes that will now be mandatory on all tobacco product packaging.
These regulations, set to come into effect nine months from the gazettement date, aim to increase awareness about the serious health risks associated with tobacco consumption, particularly among youth and vulnerable populations. The warnings are also intended to discourage smoking and protect non-smokers from the dangers of second-hand smoke.
In its official statement, the Ministry underscored the vital role of public participation in ensuring the success of the new regulations. Citizens have been encouraged to report non-compliance, support public health campaigns, and advocate for smoke-free environments.
“Tobacco use continues to pose a significant public health threat, and we must all play our part in reducing its harmful impact. The new GHWs are an important step in our collective effort to protect lives and promote a healthier, smoke-free Kenya,” the ministry stated.
Manufacturers, distributors, importers, and sellers of tobacco products have been directed to fully comply with the new regulations. The Ministry warned that failure to do so will attract penalties as outlined in the Tobacco Control Act.
This move aligns Kenya with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), which calls for global efforts to reduce tobacco consumption. Kenya remains a continental leader in tobacco control, having introduced text-based warnings in 2008 and expanded to graphic warnings in 2016.
The initial graphic warnings featured 15 images designed to vividly depict the health consequences of tobacco use, including cancer, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. The newly gazetted third batch builds on this foundation, aiming to make the dangers of tobacco even more visible and impactful.
This latest intervention marks another milestone in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to safeguard public health through comprehensive tobacco control measures.
