The Ministry of Health has announced plans to launch a nationwide crackdown on shisha consumption, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni revealed.
The campaign will also target improperly labeled products, particularly those failing to disclose their health risks to consumers.
Speaking during a Community Health Promoters (CHPs) sensitization and training workshop at Mahuti Catholic Church in Murang’a, PS Muthoni expressed concerns over the continued sale and consumption of shisha. She highlighted the risks posed to both primary and secondary consumers.
“Shisha consumption presents a serious public health threat, and we must act decisively to curb this illicit trade,” Muthoni stated, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enforcing stricter measures.
In 2017, the government imposed a comprehensive ban on shisha, prohibiting its importation, manufacture, sale, promotion, and distribution. While the ban was later deemed unconstitutional by the High Court, the Ministry of Health remains determined to address the issue through a multi-agency approach.
Under Section 163 of the Public Health Act, enacted in 2017, violators of the shisha ban face fines of up to Ksh50,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Despite this, shisha use continues in various establishments across the country, prompting fresh concerns from authorities.
PS Muthoni revealed that the government is in the final stages of forming a multi-agency team comprising key stakeholders in health and security. This team will spearhead a nationwide campaign to combat the illicit trade in shisha.
While the PS did not specify the exact start date for the crackdown, she warned that it could begin at any time.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has previously targeted venues suspected of shisha trade. In March 2024, a raid on a popular restaurant in Nairobi’s Kilimani area led to the arrest of four individuals, including the manager, sellers, and a storekeeper.
During the operation, authorities confiscated 46 shisha bongs, flavored tobacco products, charcoal pipes, and inventory records. Similar raids are expected as part of the upcoming campaign.
The Ministry of Health has urged the public and business owners to comply with the existing regulations to avoid penalties.
