Kenya Destroys 5.5 Tonnes of Illicit Tobacco for World No Tobacco Day
He noted that the illegal tobacco trade poses not only a regulatory issue but also a significant security threat to the country.
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 Jessica Nyaboke
A consignment of 5.5 tonnes of illicit tobacco, seized at Eldoret Airport, was destroyed today at the MTRH inventory, marking a significant move in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to combat the illegal tobacco trade.
The destruction of the illegal goods comes just in time for World No Tobacco Day, observed annually to raise awareness about the health risks of smoking and to advocate for policies to reduce tobacco consumption.
Speaking at the event, the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Health, Aden Duale, condemned the importation and sale of illicit tobacco in the country, emphasizing that Kenya would not become a dumping ground for harmful, unregulated products.
He noted that the illegal tobacco trade poses not only a regulatory issue but also a significant security threat to the country.
“We cannot allow Kenya to be a destination for illegal tobacco,” CS Duale said. “It is a regulatory concern, and more importantly, it is a security issue. We are taking decisive action to stop these illegal activities.”
During the World No Tobacco Day ceremony, CS Duale also urged Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) officials to be more vigilant in detecting and preventing illegal tobacco imports.
He further revealed that the government had already revoked the licenses of several businesses caught dealing with illicit tobacco, ensuring that they would no longer operate in the country.
The day’s events included a procession from Uasin Gishu County Hall to the streets of Eldoret Town, where locals joined in commemorating the global initiative to curb tobacco use. The procession aimed to promote awareness and encourage healthier lifestyles across the region.
In his address, CS Duale also urged parents to take a more active role in raising awareness among their children about the dangers of tobacco use. He stressed the importance of education and guidance, especially for the younger generation, to prevent them from falling into the trap of smoking.
A recent spot check by the media revealed that significant efforts have been made to educate youth, particularly in TVET institutions, about the dangers of tobacco use.
In addition, the CS warned parents that some sweets and candy marketed to children are often laced with substances that can negatively impact brain development, thus emphasizing the need for heightened awareness.
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