Mixed reactions as Government seeks to implement graphic health images

 Reporting by James Mutua


Nairobi, May 10, 2024 – The Kenyan government's recent push to bolster regulations within the tobacco industry has sparked a heated debate among various stakeholders, highlighting differing opinions on how best to address tobacco control.

The current discourse stems from the government's initiative to revisit the Tobacco Control Act of 2007 and the Tobacco Control Regulations of 2014, with the aim of accommodating emerging tobacco-free products. These products are touted as potential reduced-risk alternatives to traditional cigarettes, purportedly aiding smokers in their journey to quit.

Joel Gitari, Chairman of the Kenya Tobacco Control and Health Promotion Alliance, shed light on ongoing efforts to align domestic regulations with international standards. Gitari revealed plans by the Ministry to enhance graphic health warnings, increasing coverage to 80% from the existing 50%.

At the same time, Celine Awuor, Chief Executive Officer of the International Institute for Legislative Affairs, expressed reservations regarding the current state of health warnings on tobacco products. Awuor argued that for such warnings to be truly impactful, they must meet specific criteria, including larger size, clear resolution, and coverage of at least 80% of the packaging. She cited examples from Benin and Gambia, where graphic health images cover a significant portion of tobacco product packaging.

Elvina Majiwa, a prominent advocate for tobacco control and health promotion, voiced strong support for the graphic health warnings implemented by the Ministry of Health (MoH). Majiwa emphasized the effectiveness of such warnings, particularly in dissuading youth from tobacco use and curbing addiction rates. Additionally, she urged the government to incorporate non-health-related incentives into its messaging, such as the financial benefits of quitting smoking.

On the contrary, Boniface Gachoka, Secretary-General of the Bar Hotels Liquor Traders Association of Kenya (BAHLITA), voiced support for nicotine pouches as a means of reducing tobacco consumption. Gachoka criticized the current government-imposed graphics, alleging a lack of scientific backing. He urged the government to engage in comprehensive negotiations to develop regulations that satisfy all stakeholders.

The Ministry of Health has been consulting with residents and industry representatives in Kisumu, Uasin Gishu, Kakamega, Nyeri, Embu, Mombasa, and Machakos counties to gather feedback on graphic health warnings planned for cigarette packaging.


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