The Kenyan Ministry of Health is pushing for stricter enforcement of tobacco control laws due to rising addiction risks, especially among youth and in rural communities. Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni warned that unchecked tobacco and nicotine product proliferation poses serious health threats.

• Mary Muthoni emphasized that tobacco is often a gateway substance, introducing young people to other drugs.
• The Ministry of Health seeks stronger collaboration with religious leaders and community gatekeepers to combat tobacco use.
• The Ministry is advocating for zero tolerance for tobacco and nicotine products in learning institutions and households, hinting at a national crackdown on shisha and e-cigarettes.