Business owners in Eldoret are strongly opposing the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, specifically a proposed ban on flavours in products like vapes and nicotine pouches. They warn this measure could harm legitimate businesses and lead to a surge in illicit goods.

• Over half of products in the Kenyan market, including beer and cigarettes, are already illicit, according to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
• Holliab Lodenyo, Chairman of the Bars, Hotels and Liquor Traders Association in Uasin Gishu County, stated that banning compliant flavoured products would create a vacuum for illicit traders.
• The traders are urging Senators to reject the flavour ban and instead strengthen enforcement of existing laws to combat illicit trade, which they argue is more effective.