The Ministry of Health has issued a notice requiring all manufacturers, importers, distributors, and sellers of tobacco products to adopt new Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs) on their product packaging.
In a gazette notice on Friday, June 13, the ministry noted that the move is aimed at intensifying public health protections in Kenya.
The ministry announced that the newly prescribed warnings will become mandatory on all tobacco product packages within nine months.
"In exercise of the powers conferred by section 21(4) of the Tobacco Control Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Health prescribes the pictures and pictograms set out in the Schedule, to be the form in which the warning labels required under section 21 of the Act shall appear," the gazette notice read.
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The GHWs include disturbing visuals showing the effects of second-hand smoke, accompanied by messages in both English and Kiswahili.
The ministry explained that the intervention is designed to increase public awareness of tobacco-related health risks.
It also aims to deter tobacco use, particularly among young people, while protecting non-smokers and vulnerable populations from second-hand smoke.
“This action represents a critical step in safeguarding Kenyans from the harms of tobacco use and aligns with Kenya’s obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC),” the ministry affirmed.
To ensure successful rollout and compliance, the public is urged to report non-compliance, support awareness efforts, and promote smoke-free environments.
"This action represents a critical step in safeguarding Kenyans from the harms of tobacco use and aligns with Kenya’s obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Let’s work together to protect lives and promote a healthier, smoke-free Kenya," the ministry concluded.
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