By Kiprop Brian
In a bold move to combat illicit tobacco trade and protect public health, Kenya’s Ministry of Health has announced the immediate suspension of all licenses related to the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, and promotion of nicotine and related products.
The directive, issued by Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale, requires all entities previously licensed under these categories to reapply within 21 days, subject to a rigorous compliance vetting process.
Speaking during a public event in Eldoret, where 5.5 tonnes of seized tobacco products—including shisha and flavored e-cigarettes—were destroyed, CS Duale underscored the government's determination to crack down on unregulated nicotine products, which he said pose a growing threat to Kenyan youth.
“These unregulated, cheap, and dangerous products have targeted and harmed our young people for far too long,” said Duale. “Today’s action is not just about enforcement—it is about protecting our citizens and upholding our national health and security.”
The suspension falls under the enforcement of the Tobacco Control Act 2007, as well as other relevant legal frameworks aimed at curbing the spread of illicit tobacco products in the market.
The CS warned that non-compliant businesses would face prosecution, and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to create a tightly monitored nicotine market, prioritizing the health and safety of the public over commercial interests.
Health officials say the revoked licenses will be reviewed under a new system designed to eliminate loopholes that previously allowed illicit products to flood the market, often through informal networks and porous borders.
The move has been widely welcomed by health advocacy groups, who have long called for stricter regulations on nicotine and tobacco products, especially those targeting adolescents through appealing packaging and flavors.
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