NAIROBI, Kenya – Nandi Hills MP Bernard Kitur has proposed the introduction of a Health Promotion Levy (HPL) on sugar-sweetened beverages, aiming to curb the rise of lifestyle diseases and boost funding for critical public health initiatives.
Appearing before the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning during public hearings on the Finance Bill 2025, Kitur argued that sugary drinks are a major contributor to Kenya’s growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes.
“This levy is not just about taxation; it’s about protecting public health, promoting responsible manufacturing, and empowering Kenyans to make healthier dietary choices,” said Kitur.
The proposed levy sets a sugar threshold of 4 grams per 100 millilitres, above which beverages will be taxed.
Locally produced drinks will attract Sh1 per excess gram per 100ml, while imported drinks will face Sh2 per excess gram in the same quantity.
For instance, a beverage with 6g of sugar per 100ml would be taxed Sh2 if locally made and Sh4 if imported.
Certain products will be exempt, including:
- 100% fruit juices with no added sugar
- Dairy-based beverages with at least 75% milk content
- All drinks manufactured solely for export
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) will collect the levy, with Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) tasked with verifying sugar content for compliance.
Kitur said the funds raised would support:
- School feeding programmes
- Public health awareness campaigns
- School nutrition and health infrastructure
- Subsidies for healthier drink options
He added that the measure is expected to stimulate product innovation in the beverage industry, drive down national sugar consumption, and strengthen Kenya’s response to lifestyle diseases.
“We urge Parliament to pass this proposal in the interest of public health and economic sustainability. It’s a strategic investment in the country’s health and future,” he said.
If adopted, Kenya would join a growing list of countries implementing so-called “sugar taxes” to tackle rising public health costs linked to poor nutrition.
