ELDORET – In a sweeping directive aimed at tightening tobacco regulation and safeguarding public health, Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale has ordered the immediate nationwide suspension of all licenses related to nicotine products and reaffirmed Kenya’s ban on shisha.
The announcement was made during the World No Tobacco Day commemoration at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret, where 4.4 tonnes of illicit tobacco products—including shisha, gutkha, flavoured e-cigarettes, and other nicotine delivery devices—were publicly destroyed.
“I therefore reiterate the ban on shisha,” said CS
Duale. “Kenya is not a dumping ground for harmful substances. Regardless of business status or political affiliation, the law must be obeyed.”
The products, confiscated at Eldoret International Airport, were deemed illegal, substandard, and in violation of Kenya’s tobacco control laws.
Health CS Aden Duale suspends all licences for nicotine, shisha, flavoured e-cigarettes; importers, sellers must reapply in 21 days; oversees destruction of 5.5 tonnes. pic.twitter.com/kO9kSxCDXq
— Frontier Online (@FrontierOnlineK) May 31, 2025
Duale emphasized that these substances, often disguised as trendy alternatives, are highly addictive and dangerous, especially to the youth.
Under the new directive, all existing licenses and import clearances for the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, or promotion of nicotine and related products are suspended with immediate effect.
All previously licensed entities must reapply within 21 days, providing full compliance documentation for reconsideration.
The move is anchored in the Tobacco Control Act, 2007, and is consistent with Kenya’s obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and its protocols.
CS Duale also lauded the efforts of multi-agency teams, including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Immigration, Security Agencies, and Port Health Services, for their role in intercepting the contraband. He praised MTRH for facilitating the environmentally safe destruction of the products.
“This is not just about enforcement. It’s about protecting our youth, our economy, and the health of our nation,” Duale stated.
As Kenya strengthens its border surveillance and port health infrastructure, the Health Ministry is positioning public health as a pillar of national security.
The renewed crackdown signals a zero-tolerance approach to the illegal tobacco trade and a commitment to long-term health security.
“Choose health. Choose life. Choose a tobacco-free Kenya,” the Health CS urged.
