Duale Suspends All Nicotine Licenses, Destroys 5.5 Tonnes of Illegal Tobacco in Major Crackdown
“What we destroy today is not just illegal contraband—it is the beginning of a healthier, more resilient Kenya.”
A consignment of 5.5 tonnes of illicit tobacco, seized at Eldoret Airport, was destroyed today at the MTRH inventory.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has suspended all existing licenses and import clearances for the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, and promotion of nicotine and related products with immediate effect. The suspension reinforces Kenya’s shisha ban and signals a renewed crackdown on harmful tobacco use.
Duale issued the directive during the destruction of 5.5 tones of illicit tobacco products at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, an event marking World No Tobacco Day. The seized consignment—included shisha, gutkha, flavoured e-cigarettes, and other nicotine delivery devices—was intercepted at Eldoret International Airport.
“Under my watch, I will not allow toxic substances to endanger the lives of Kenyans,” Duale declared. “What we destroy today is not just illegal contraband—it is the beginning of a healthier, more resilient Kenya.”
He called on citizens to join the fight against tobacco. “Choose health. Choose life. Choose a tobacco-free Kenya.”
Duale described the occasion as “more than a commemoration—it is a resolute call to action.” He praised Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital for hosting the event and overseeing the safe, eco-friendly disposal of the products using globally approved methods.
He also commended the Border Management Committee—including KRA, KEBS, Immigration, Security Agencies, and Port Health Services—for their vigilance in intercepting the shipment. “Kenya is not a dumping ground for harmful substances. Our laws are clear, and our enforcement agencies are alert,” he said.
The move aligns with Kenya’s tobacco control laws, including the Tobacco Control Act (2007) and the 2014 Regulations. The country also upholds the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, reaffirmed by a 2017 shisha ban that was upheld in court in 2024.
Duale warned that the illegal tobacco trade is a serious public health threat, particularly to youth. “These unregulated products are designed to lure our young people—undoing decades of progress,” he said.
He highlighted the immense healthcare burden caused by tobacco. According to the Kenya Tobacco Control Alliance, billions are spent annually treating tobacco-related diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular conditions.
“These products are not harmless lifestyle trends,” he said. “They contain carcinogens that damage the brain, lungs, and create lifelong addiction. Their flavours and packaging are crafted to hook children early.”
All previously licensed businesses must now reapply within 21 days and provide full compliance documentation for review.
The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization, and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, who affirmed their shared commitment to protecting public health and securing a tobacco-free future.
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