Kenya Declares War on Illicit Tobacco
Among the destroyed items were shisha, gudga, flavoured e-cigarettes, and other unregulated tobacco products intercepted at Eldoret Airport.
Caption: Health CS Aden Duale leads the destruction of 5.5 tonnes of illicit tobacco at MTRH in Eldoret during World No Tobacco Day on May 31, 2025. Photo/Aden Duale.
By Juliet Jerotich
Kenya marked World No Tobacco Day with a bold declaration against illicit tobacco, as Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Aden Duale led the destruction of 5.5 tonnes of illegal tobacco products at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret on Saturday, May 31st, 2025.
Among the destroyed items were shisha, gudga, flavoured e-cigarettes, and other unregulated tobacco products intercepted at Eldoret Airport.
Addressing the press, CS Duale stressed that this was not just a symbolic disposal, but a clear message to both importers and citizens: Kenya will not be a dumping ground for toxic substances.
“This is not just a ceremony; we are here to protect the health of our people,” said CS Duale. “Illicit tobacco is a threat to public health, especially to our youth—the future of this nation. These products are cheap, dangerous, and designed to lure the young with harmful substances.”
He commended the coordinated efforts of airport stakeholders, including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), public health officers, and security agencies for intercepting the illegal consignment. Duale emphasized that the crackdown on illegal tobacco would continue with full force.
“Under my leadership, Kenya will not tolerate such threats to our health and national security. If it was happening before, it will not happen again,” he declared.
CS Duale noted that Kenya, as a signatory to the World Health Organization’s framework for tobacco control, is committed to eliminating illicit tobacco trade.
He praised the vigilance of the Border Management Committee—comprising KRA, KEBS, and immigration officials—for ensuring tighter surveillance at entry points.
The Health Ministry also announced the immediate suspension of all licences related to the manufacture, importation, distribution, and sale of nicotine-related products. All previously licensed entities must now reapply within 21 days and meet strict compliance requirements.
“This is not business as usual. Those importing products into our country must be accountable. We are implementing a serious vetting process led by people of integrity,” said Duale.
He concluded by urging leaders and citizens to embrace a tobacco-free Kenya, stating, “These are not lifestyle choices; they are instruments of harm. Let us choose health, life, and the future of our children.”
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