NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has stepped up efforts to curb the illicit and counterfeit tobacco trade, citing growing risks to public health and government revenue.
Interior Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo said he held talks with the British American Tobacco Kenya (BAT) Board of Directors following a meeting with President William Ruto on the implementation of the Presidential Proclamation on Alcohol and Drug Control.
Dr Omollo said the discussions focused on the scale of the illicit tobacco trade and practical interventions to disrupt the illegal market.
“We reviewed past measures that have proven effective and identified immediate and long-term interventions to curb the vice, protect public health, and safeguard government revenue,” Omollo said.
The meeting comes as the government intensifies a multi-agency crackdown on illicit alcohol, drugs, and related products, including counterfeit cigarettes that evade taxation and regulation.
The illicit tobacco trade has long been a concern for authorities due to revenue losses and the circulation of unregulated products that pose serious health risks. Counterfeit cigarettes often bypass quality controls and health warnings required under Kenyan law.
According to officials, the renewed focus aligns with the President’s directive to strengthen enforcement against illegal supply chains and protect consumers from harmful substances.
The engagement with BAT brought together senior industry stakeholders, including Board Chairperson Rita Kavashe, Crispin Achola, and Phyllis Wakiaga, alongside other board members.
Government officials said collaboration with legitimate manufacturers is key to identifying gaps in enforcement, strengthening monitoring systems, and sharing intelligence on emerging trends in illicit trade.
The talks also examined long-term strategies aimed at disrupting distribution networks, enhancing compliance, and reinforcing regulatory oversight across the supply chain.
Dr Omollo said the government remains committed to a coordinated approach that balances enforcement, regulation, and stakeholder engagement.
The move signals closer cooperation between the State and the private sector as Kenya confronts the wider challenge of illegal trade, which authorities say undermines public health, economic stability, and the rule of law.
