The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) intensified its crackdown on banned nicotine products over the weekend, arresting one suspect during a raid at an entertainment venue in Nairobi. The operation, conducted on Saturday night, targeted Ledet Bar and Restaurant in Hurlingham, along Argwings Kodhek Road.
According to NACADA Head of Enforcement Nicholus Kosgey, several shisha products were confiscated during the operation. He reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to enforcing the nationwide ban on shisha, stating that the crackdown was part of a broader campaign to protect public health and prevent nicotine addiction, especially among the youth.
“We want to ensure that our people and generation do not continue consuming nicotine products,” said Kosgey. “This crackdown is just the beginning. We will not relent until the sale and abuse of shisha is eliminated.”
The suspect arrested during the raid remains in police custody and is expected to be arraigned in court on Tuesday. NACADA has pledged to continue with similar operations across the country in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
The weekend raid comes shortly after a directive by Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale, who announced the suspension of all existing nicotine product licenses. The CS emphasized the need to tame widespread abuse of such products, including shisha, which remains banned in Kenya since 2017.
“All persons currently licensed will now be required to reapply afresh within 21 days,” said Duale. “They must observe full compliance with existing health and regulatory laws for proper vetting.”
Kenya’s shisha ban was originally introduced through a gazette notice by the Ministry of Health citing severe health risks and increased use among young people. Despite the ban, illegal sale and consumption of shisha have continued in various urban nightlife spots.
As the new enforcement measures take shape, both NACADA and the Ministry of Health have warned that failure to comply with the new licensing and regulatory framework will lead to further arrests and closures of non-compliant establishments. The crackdown serves as a clear signal that authorities are stepping up efforts to combat substance abuse in the country.
