Cassypool Calls for Shisha Regulation Instead of Total Ban, Urges CS Duale to Review Policy
Cassypool Capon has called for the regulation of shisha rather than an outright ban, saying tighter controls would help the government monitor the industry and curb illegal trade.
Nairobi gubernatorial aspirant Cassypool Capon. Photo/Courtesy
By Annette Chepng’etich
Nairobi gubernatorial aspirant Cassypool Capon has asked Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale to rethink the government’s tougher stance on shisha, and instead move toward tighter regulation to steer how it’s used, sold, and monitored.
While the nation is once again talking about whether Kenya should keep pushing for a ban on shisha, Cassypool said a total stop might not be the best route to handle the public health problems linked with smoking.
He argued that, with a regulated structure in place, the government would be able to watch the sector more clearly, and at the same time slow down the spread of illegal trade that often thrives when business is forced underground.
“Regulation gives a kind of middle path, protects public health, but doesn’t throw the whole trade into darkness,” Cassypool said.
He also cautioned that holding on to a blanket ban could actually make enforcement messy, by nudging the business into unregulated pockets beyond the reach of authorities, and people will still find a way.
The Nairobi politician went on to suggest that tighter rules , licensing expectations and close supervision could be a more workable solution than an outright ban.
“Prudent oversight and strong compliance steps, are more sensible than a blanket ban,” he added.
Cassypool’s remarks land as talk continues around the health effects of shisha smoking, and around the government’s drive to curb tobacco and nicotine use, especially among young people.
Kenya previously banned the manufacture, sale, promotion and use of shisha through regulations put out by the Ministry of Health, saying it poses serious risks to public health.
Cassypool’s call has sparked mixed reactions across Kenya. Some people back the idea of stricter regulation as a middle ground, while others say the ban should remain because shisha still comes with clear dangers.
Health specialists have repeatedly noted that shisha smoke can expose users to harmful chemicals, and it may raise the chances of nicotine dependence, respiratory illnesses, and other longer-term health issues.
“Public health must stay first in any conversation involving tobacco, nicotine products, and related practices,” health professionals have consistently maintained.
As the discussion carries on, the whole debate keeps showing the same challenge, balancing public health worries with regulation style tools meant to control products that can be harmful.
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