Health PS Mary Muthoni Backs Government’s Decision to Suspend Nicotine Product Licences
She cited increasing public health risks, especially among young people and women, as the main reason behind this action.
Public Health PS Mary Muthoni defends government's decision to revoke nicotine product licenses, citing rising health risks among youth and women. Photo/Citizen Digital.
By Juliet Jerotich
On Thursday, June 5, 2025, Principal Secretary for Public Health, Mary Muthoni, strongly defended the government’s move to revoke all licences related to nicotine products.
She cited increasing public health risks, especially among young people and women, as the main reason behind this action.
In an interview with a local TV station, Muthoni explained that the nicotine product market had become so widespread and uncontrolled that the government could no longer guarantee the safety or quality of these substances.
“The market was so heavily flooded with these products that we lost track of what exactly was being sold,” she said, supporting the government’s decision to suspend licences for the production, import, sale, and advertising of nicotine products throughout the country.
Muthoni pointed to worrying statistics as a major factor behind the move. She revealed that more than 100,000 children aged 10 to 17 are currently using vaping products, while smoking rates among women have also risen sharply.
The suspension forms part of a wider government effort to safeguard vulnerable groups and regain oversight over an expanding and poorly regulated nicotine industry.
Additionally, Muthoni addressed concerns about the improper use of certain prescription drugs, especially Ozempic, a medication intended for diabetes but increasingly used for weight loss without proper medical guidance. She confirmed that the Pharmacy and Poisons Board is investigating these issues.
“Medications must always be taken under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals,” she stressed. “This is not just about rules; it’s about protecting Kenyans from the dangers of self-medication.”
Highlighting challenges in health sector funding, Muthoni said the government is now focusing more on mobilizing local resources to support health services instead of relying heavily on external funds.
“It’s time we take ownership of our health solutions,” she remarked, noting that this strategy will strengthen the country’s ability to meet its health priorities independently.
The government’s crackdown on nicotine product licences and prescription drug misuse is part of a broader strategy to improve public health oversight and ensure the safety of all citizens.
Muthoni also noted the rising popularity of vaping among teenagers, often falsely marketed as a safer alternative to smoking. However, scientific evidence shows nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm brain development and increase the risk of lifelong addiction.
She called on parents, schools, and community leaders to work together with the government in raising awareness about the risks associated with vaping, smoking, and drug misuse.
“We are not banning these products arbitrarily,” Muthoni concluded. “We are acting to protect a generation threatened by aggressive commercial interests promoting addictive and harmful substances.”
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