NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 18 – The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health has embarked on stakeholders engagement in efforts to strengthen tobacco control measures and curb diseases linked to nicotine products.
Committee Chairperson James Nyikal (Seme) made the commitment during a meeting with Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni.
During the session, Muthoni briefed Members of Parliament on the implementation status of the Tobacco Control Act, 2007, including the management of the Tobacco Control Fund.
The Principal Secretary outlined progress made in tobacco control, citing the enforcement of smoke-free public spaces, implementation of graphic health warnings, public awareness campaigns, tobacco cessation programmes, and enhanced regulatory oversight.
She also highlighted emerging challenges, including the growing use of novel nicotine and tobacco products, illicit trade, and the use of digital platforms to market tobacco products to young people.
Muthoni emphasized the need for sustained collaboration among government agencies, Parliament, civil society, and other stakeholders to strengthen enforcement, address emerging threats, and support the effective implementation of tobacco control interventions.
The Senate is currently considering the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, sponsored by Nominated Senator Catherine Mumma. The Bill seeks to amend the Tobacco Control Act, 2007, by introducing stricter regulations on the production, sale, advertisement, and use of nicotine products, including nicotine pouches and electronic cigarettes (vapes).
Members of the Committee, led by Nyikal, noted that the current law is outdated and does not adequately address the rapid growth in the use of electronic nicotine products, nicotine pouches, and synthetic nicotine.
Nyikal assured the Principal Secretary that the Committee would consult widely once the Bill is referred to the National Assembly.
“We will meet with the State Department and other key stakeholders and examine the Amendment Bill clause by clause. This will enable us to develop practical solutions that will strengthen tobacco control in the country,” said Nyikal.
