Nairobi, Kenya – Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has issued a stern warning to tobacco manufacturers, importers, and distributors across the country: comply with the new packaging regulations—or face legal consequences.
In a statement released on Saturday via X (formerly Twitter), CS Duale underscored the Ministry of Health’s renewed commitment to enforcing Section 21 of the Tobacco Control Act, which mandates the inclusion of graphic health warnings (GHWs) on all tobacco product packaging.
“As stipulated in Section 21 of the Act, all tobacco product packaging must carry clearly visible health warnings, including graphic images and pictograms,” said Duale.
He added that firms will have nine months from the date of publication to fully implement the changes or risk facing the full force of the law.
Protecting Public Health
The new directive—gazetted on Friday—marks the launch of the third batch of mandatory GHWs under the Tobacco Control Act, further reinforcing the government’s efforts to protect public health. The warnings are designed to educate, deter, and protect, with a particular focus on youth and vulnerable populations.
“These warnings serve as a stark reminder of the grave health risks associated with tobacco use, including cancer, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases,” said the CS.
Duale noted that the warnings are not just symbolic, but a crucial part of Kenya’s strategy to reduce tobacco consumption and limit the exposure of non-smokers to second-hand smoke.
Firm Deadline and Legal Enforcement
According to the ministry, all stakeholders—including manufacturers, importers, sellers, and distributors—must ensure that all tobacco products feature the new approved pictograms and warnings by the end of the nine-month grace period.
Failure to comply will result in penalties and legal action, as outlined in the Tobacco Control Act.
The regulations align with global public health standards under the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), to which Kenya is a signatory. The FCTC encourages countries to adopt graphic, impactful labeling as a proven measure to reduce tobacco use.
As the clock ticks on the compliance window, the Ministry of Health has pledged to step up surveillance and enforcement efforts, ensuring that no product reaches the shelves without proper labeling.
“We will not allow profit to override the health of our citizens,” Duale warned. “This is about saving lives.”
By Were Kelly
