CS Duale suspends all nicotine product licenses, vows crackdown on illicit tobacco

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has, with immediate effect, suspended all existing licenses and import clearances related to the manufacture, importation, distribution, sale, or promotion of nicotine and related products.

Duale announced that all individuals and entities previously licensed must reapply within 21 days, submitting full compliance documentation for review.

“We are going to do very thorough compliance vetting. It’s not going to be business as usual,” he said.

He reiterated the government’s existing ban on shisha, saying it is part of efforts to ensure responsible drug use and safeguard public health.

The ministry’s action is grounded in the Tobacco Control Act of 2007 and other relevant laws.

“We will do it morally and within the confines of the Health Act,” said Duale, noting that the ultimate goal is to build a healthier, safer, and stronger country.

Duale was speaking during the destruction of 5.5 tonnes of illicit tobacco products seized at Eldoret International Airport.

The exercise took place at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital’s incinerator, as part of activities marking World No Tobacco Day.

Also present were Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkekei, and Moi Referral Hospital CEO Dr. Phillip Kirwa.

“These products are not just unregulated and cheap—they’re dangerous. They poison our young generation,” Duale said, referring to the seized shisha and flavored cigarettes.

“This is not just disposal. This is a declaration that Kenya will not be a dumping ground for toxic substances. If it was happening before, it will not happen under my leadership.”

He warned that illicit tobacco is a threat not just to public health but to national security, particularly targeting the youth with harmful chemicals that impair brain development and destroy futures.

“This is not about lifestyle choices. These are instruments of harm. We must act to protect our children, our health system, and our future.”

Duale said Kenya remains committed to the WHO protocols on eliminating illicit tobacco products and has invested heavily in border surveillance and port health to prevent illegal entries.

He urged all leaders and citizens to "choose health, choose life, and choose a tobacco-free country."

Earlier, Duale toured Moi Referral Hospital and commended CEO Dr. Kirwa for his leadership in ensuring quality healthcare delivery.