MAGERO: Who will speak for the smokers struggling to quit?
June 23, 2026 by the-star.co.ke
MAGERO: Who will speak for the smokers struggling to quit?
Smokers struggling to quit are too often left out of tobacco policy debates. Many have tried conventional methods without success, yet lower-risk alternatives are frequently restricted, stigmatised or treated like cigarettes. Harm reduction starts by recognising smokers as people who need practical options, not moral judgement. Public health should speak for those still facing the greatest risk — and help them move away from combustible tobacco.
6.40% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.3 million current smokers in Kenya 12.10% of men are current smokers but only 0.90% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR
