The Ministry of Health on Friday, June 14 gazetted the third batch of Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs) under the Tobacco Control Act (Cap. 245A), reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to tobacco control and the protection of public health.

The new warnings, which feature approved pictures and pictograms, must now appear on all tobacco product packaging.

With the new Graphic Health Warnings on tobacco products, the Ministry aims to increase public awareness of tobacco-related health risks, deter tobacco use, especially among youth, and protect non-smokers and vulnerable populations.

The Ministry also directed that the notice should come into operation 9 months after the publication was shared.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by section 21(4) of the Tobacco Control Act, the Cabinet Secretary for Health prescribes the pictures and pictograms set out in the Schedule, to be the form in which the warning labels required under section 21 of the Act shall appear and this Notice shall come into operation upon expiration of nine months from the date of publication,” they said in a statement.

To ensure successful implementation, the Ministry is urging the public to report non-compliance, support awareness efforts, and advocate for smoke-free environments.

Manufacturers, distributors, importers, and sellers have also been urged to judiciously comply by applying the new GHWs as prescribed by law.

“This action represents a critical step in safeguarding Kenyans from the harms of tobacco use and aligns with Kenya’s obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Let’s work together to protect lives and promote a healthier, smoke-free Kenya,” the Ministry says.