Ministry of health cracks down on e-cigarettes and tobacco alternatives with new packaging rules
In a decisive step toward combating nicotine addiction, the ministry of health has unveiled new graphic health warnings (GHWs) for novel nicotine and emerging tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and heated tobacco devices.
The initiative, announced Wednesday, February 19, 2025, by the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, aims to stem rising tobacco use, particularly among young people.
“These GHWs aim to educate consumers about the risks associated with novel nicotine products, including e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, which have gained popularity, particularly among young people.
“Research indicates these products can lead to nicotine addiction and pose serious health risks. The clear and impactful visual warnings are designed to inform the public and deter tobacco use, especially among vulnerable populations,” the ministry stated.
“We are taking a proactive approach to tobacco control by updating our health warnings to address modern challenges,” Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary of the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards said in a notice posted by ministry of health.
“These graphic warnings are a vital tool in our efforts to reduce tobacco consumption and protect public health, particularly among our youth,” she added.
The move is in line with Kenya’s Tobacco Control Act of 2007 and reflects growing concerns over the popularity of alternative nicotine products.
Recent studies indicate that while these products are often marketed as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes, they pose significant health risks, including nicotine addiction and respiratory complications.
Vivid imagery to deter use
The newly gazetted warnings feature stark, high-contrast images illustrating the harmful effects of nicotine and tobacco consumption.
The ministry hopes the vivid visuals will enhance awareness and dissuade consumers from using these products.
“Research shows that graphic warnings are more effective in communicating health risks than text-only labels,” Muthoni noted.
Under the new regulations, all manufacturers and retailers must display the warnings prominently on packaging.
Non-compliance will attract penalties, with the Ministry pledging strict enforcement to ensure adherence to the updated standards.
Even as the country seeks to implement tobacco control, challenges remain, especially with the surge in novel nicotine products among youth.
The ministry of health is urging all stakeholders, including manufacturers, retailers, and the public, to support the initiative to foster healthier communities.
