The Kenyan government is preparing to launch a nationwide crackdown on the sale and consumption of shisha, announced Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni. The crackdown will also target products that are improperly labeled, especially those with misleading health information.
PS Muthoni raised concerns about the risks posed by shisha, not only to primary users but also to secondary consumers exposed to harmful secondhand smoke.
Despite a comprehensive ban on shisha in 2017, which prohibited its use, importation, sale, and distribution, the High Court declared the ban unconstitutional. However, the government is moving forward with plans to tackle this issue head-on.
“Shisha consumption continues to be a serious public health threat,” Muthoni said during a workshop in Murang’a on Friday. “We are finalizing the formation of a multi-agency team that will include health and security stakeholders to launch a nationwide campaign against the illicit trade.”
Under Section 163 of the Public Health Act, violators of the shisha ban face penalties, including fines up to 50,000 shillings, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
Despite these regulations, shisha consumption remains widespread in many establishments, prompting renewed government action.
In recent operations, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), in partnership with law enforcement, has conducted raids targeting venues suspected of selling shisha.
While the exact date for the nationwide crackdown has not been announced, authorities have warned that it could begin at any time.