The Kenyan government has suspended all existing licences related to the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, or promotion of nicotine and related products, citing concerns over public health and national security.
Speaking in Eldoret on Saturday, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale made the announcement while presiding over the destruction of 5.5 tonnes of illicit tobacco products intercepted at the Eldoret International Airport.
“In line with the Tobacco Control Act 2007 and other applicable laws, the Ministry of Health hereby suspends all existing licences and import clearances with immediate effect,” said CS Duale.
He emphasized that all current license holders must reapply within 21 days, submitting full compliance documentation for thorough vetting. The government, he warned, will implement a “very serious compliance system” to clean up the market.
Among the destroyed products were shisha, flavoured e-cigarettes, and other nicotine-laced items which Duale said are being aggressively marketed to young people.
“These illicit products are cheap, unregulated, and extremely dangerous. They are targeting our youth and destroying their lives silently,” he said. “This is not just a health issue; it is a matter of national security.”
The CS called on Kenyans to support the government’s campaign against illicit tobacco and harmful nicotine products, urging vigilance at community and institutional levels.
The bold move comes amid growing concerns about the rise of emerging nicotine products, especially among the youth, and increasing scrutiny of the e-cigarette and vape markets. Health advocates have long warned that such products are gateway substances leading to long-term addiction and serious health complications.
The Ministry has pledged to intensify its crackdown on violators and continue seizing and destroying illegal nicotine products across the country.
Let me know if you’d like a graphic or headline version for social media.
