Kenya Launches Anti-smoking Campaign Targeting Teenagers

Kenya’s Ministry of Health, in partnership with civil society organisations, has rolled out a youth‑focused anti‑smoking campaign to shield young people from the tobacco and nicotine industry’s aggressive tactics. The campaign was formally launched on World No Tobacco Day (May 31) under the theme Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products , highlighting how companies are targeting adolescents through flavored products, attractive packaging, and digital promotion.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale spoke at Uasin Gishu Primary School during the launch, where he presided over the destruction of 5.5 tonnes of seized illicit tobacco products. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protect youth, especially from emerging products such as e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, which have seen increased uptake among teenagers. In the campaign, the Ministry is also enforcing new legal measures. Very strong graphic health warnings are now being introduced on tobacco packaging, and the Tobacco Control Board has signaled tighter regulation of flavored and low‑risk nicotine products.
Civil society organisations, including the Kenyan Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO) and the Kenya Tobacco and Nicotine Tax Coalition (KTNTC), are active partners, calling for stronger laws to ban flavored nicotine pouches, restrict e-cigarettes, and curb digital marketing. Youth advocates are also pushing for age verification and plain packaging, arguing that without these, the industry will continue to lure a new generation into nicotine addiction.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Health has committed to ongoing vigilance and enforcement. The campaign will be backed by increased inspections, public-health education in schools, and tighter coordination with county governments to ensure young people are protected. Officials say this is a crucial front in Kenya’s broader effort to reduce tobacco-related disease and build a healthier, smoke‑free generation.