Health ministry begins process to tighten tobacco laws

The Ministry of Health is updating the Tobacco Control Act to regulate nicotine products like e-cigarettes and pouches due to their popularity among Kenyan youth. The revisions aim to strengthen regulations and address gaps to protect public health. Dr. George Githuka highlighted the need to anticipate future tobacco products and enhance collaboration with partners. The WHO warns of the harmful impacts of tobacco on health and socio-economic well-being. The updates will also restructure the compensation fund. The current law mandates funding for tobacco control programs, which has not been implemented.