NAIROBI, Kenya – The Ministry of Health has announced the gazettement of a fresh set of graphic health warnings (GHWs) that will now be mandatory on all tobacco product packaging in Kenya, marking a renewed push in the country’s tobacco control efforts.
Published under the Tobacco Control Act, this third batch of GHWs features pictorial and pictogram-based warnings aimed at visually confronting users with the severe health consequences of smoking and tobacco consumption.
The new warnings will take effect nine months from the date of publication, giving manufacturers, distributors, importers, and retailers time to comply. Non-compliance will attract penalties as outlined in the law.
In a statement on Thursday, the Health Ministry said the move reaffirms Kenya’s commitment to protecting public health and aligns with international obligations under the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).
“Tobacco use continues to pose a significant public health threat, and we must all play our part in reducing its harmful impact. The new GHWs are an important step in our collective effort to protect lives and promote a healthier, smoke-free Kenya,” the ministry said.
The government is banking on the visual warnings to deter tobacco use — especially among youth — and raise awareness about the dangers of second-hand smoke.
The public has been encouraged to participate in the enforcement by reporting violations, supporting awareness campaigns, and advocating for smoke-free spaces.
Kenya first introduced text-based warnings on tobacco products in 2008, followed by graphic warnings in 2016 as part of broader reforms under the 2014 Tobacco Control Regulations.
The initial 15 graphic images — including depictions of cancer and other smoking-related illnesses — were designed to communicate the health risks more directly to consumers, particularly younger audiences.
This latest rollout builds on those efforts, expanding the range and visual impact of the warnings.
Officials say the ultimate goal is to reduce tobacco-related illness, including cancers, heart disease, and chronic respiratory conditions.
Kenya remains one of the African countries leading in tobacco control policy, with health officials now calling on the public to stay vigilant and hold the industry accountable.
