The Kenyan Ministry of Health has taken a significant step to regulate nicotine products, with Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announcing the immediate suspension of all existing licenses and import clearances. This directive covers the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, or promotion of nicotine and related products. The announcement was made during the World No Tobacco Day event held at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.

Effective immediately, all persons and entities previously licensed to handle nicotine products are required to reapply within a 21-day period. This reapplication process necessitates the submission of full compliance documentation for thorough consideration by the Ministry. CS Duale emphasized that this move is driven by growing concerns over public health and the ministry's commitment to strictly enforce compliance with regulatory standards.

Underscoring the seriousness of this initiative, CS Duale stated, "The Ministry of Health under the Tobacco Control Act 2007 and other applicable laws hereby suspends all existing licenses and import clearance related to the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale or promotion of nicotine and related products with immediate effect." He further added, "We are going to do a serious compliance vetting system going forward. You must account for what you bring to our country. We will do our duty morally and within the confines of the Health Acts and the Constitution."

In addition to these new measures, CS Duale firmly reaffirmed the ongoing ban on the importation, manufacture, sale, and use of shisha. This prohibition, originally enacted in 2017 under public health regulations, remains strictly in force due to the significant health risks associated with shisha smoking. "I reiterate the ban on shisha to curb the progression of drug use and safeguard our public health,” Duale declared, highlighting the government's sustained efforts to protect citizens from harmful substances.

The Cabinet Secretary elaborated on the severe health consequences of shisha consumption, which include respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as exposure to a range of toxic chemicals. He cautioned that while some may perceive shisha as a less harmful alternative to cigarette smoking, experts warn it carries substantial health risks, particularly for the youth. "Shisha smoke contains nicotine, a highly addictive substance that causes dependence and withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to quit and increasing the risk of continued tobacco use," the CS explained.

To demonstrate the government's zero-tolerance policy towards illicit products, CS Duale oversaw the destruction of 5.5 tonnes of seized tobacco-related items, including shisha and vodka. These contraband goods, confiscated at Eldoret International Airport, were destroyed at the MTRH incinerator. This action serves as a clear message that Kenya will not be a repository for toxic and illegal substances.

CS Duale passionately articulated the dangers these products pose, especially to the younger generation. "These are not lifestyle choices, they are instruments of harm that target our youths and damage their lungs, brains, and future," he stated. "We cannot afford complexity. Our enforcement of the tobacco control act is both legal and our moral duty." He stressed that the nation must not become a dumping ground for harmful substances that undermine public health.

Furthermore, the government has intensified efforts to combat the illegal tobacco trade, which Duale characterized as a national security concern. Measures include strengthening border surveillance and deploying port health officers to key entry points. These proactive steps are designed to curb the inflow of unauthorized tobacco products and protect the populace from associated health and economic harms.