The Ministry of Health has urged county governments to take decisive action in enforcing the national ban on shisha, citing its harmful health impacts on society.
Kenya implemented a nationwide ban on shisha in 2017, outlawing its manufacture, importation, sale, use, and any form of promotion or facilitation. The country became the fourth in East Africa to impose such a ban, following Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.
Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa emphasized the severe health risks associated with shisha smoking, including lung diseases and cancers. She expressed concern about the increasing number of children becoming addicted to shisha, which she said ultimately hinders their future prospects.
“We are hopeful that county governments will take the necessary steps to implement the ban, as addiction to shisha can lead to lifelong health issues, as well as social and economic challenges for families,” Barasa said. “The cost of addiction also weighs heavily on families, contributing to financial strain.”
Shisha, also known as hookah or water pipe smoking, originates from the Middle East and parts of Asia. The practice involves smoking tobacco heated by burning charcoal in a pipe, with a hose or tube connected to a mouthpiece through which the smoker inhales.
Shisha often contains tobacco mixed with flavors such as apple, strawberry, mint, and cola, and sometimes molasses sugar. Despite its pleasant aroma, shisha smoke is laden with harmful chemicals like carbon monoxide and tar, which are linked to various health conditions, including mouth and lung cancers, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses.
Additionally, shisha pipes used in bars and cafes are not always cleaned properly, increasing the risk of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) raised alarm in April 2023, warning that shisha smoking was resurging in the country despite the ban. This follows reports of the return of shisha bars and illegal sales, which could undermine public health efforts.
In 2014, prior to the ban, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with NACADA, found that 19 shisha flavors tested positive for heroin, cocaine, and bhang, with 79.2% of the samples containing heroin. This prompted an immediate crackdown on the sale of shisha.
Violating the shisha ban carries serious penalties. Those caught contravening the law face fines of up to Sh50,000 or imprisonment for a term of up to six months, or both.
The Ministry of Health continues to urge county governments to remain vigilant in upholding the ban to protect public health and prevent the spread of addiction.
