The Ministry of Health has gazetted new graphic health warnings, which must appear on all novel nicotine and emerging tobacco products.
These include electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), vape pens, and nicotine pouches.
In a recent notice, the ministry noted that the new regulation aligns with the Tobacco Control Act of 2007 and reinforces its commitment to protecting public health.
Ministry of Health gazettes mandatory graphic warnings for tobacco products. Photo: Courtesy.
“The State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, Ministry of Health, is pleased to announce the gazettement of new graphic health warnings for novel nicotine and emerging tobacco products,” read part of the statement.
The upgrading of the graphics according to the Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni is necessitated by modern challenges caused by the recent crop of novel nicotine products.
“We are taking a proactive approach to tobacco control by updating our health warnings to address modern challenges. These graphic warnings are a vital tool in our efforts to reduce tobacco consumption and protect public health, particularly among our youth,’’ the PS noted.
The new graphics are expected to include two key features; vivid imagery and targeted messaging.
The images are expected to strikingly depict the harmful effects of nicotine and tobacco use by enhancing their visibility and memorability.
Targeted messaging on the other hand will address emerging concerns related to novel nicotine products by reflecting the current landscape of tobacco use.
