Stakeholders urge parliament to review Tobacco Bill over business, licensing concerns

Elthari, Kenya, 25th September – Stakeholders in Uasin Gishu County have urged Parliament to carefully consider the implications of proposed amendments to the Tobacco Control Act when reviewing the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill in 2025. During a public participation session by the National Assembly Health Committee in Eldoret, these stakeholders expressed concerns over the potential impact on businesses and livelihoods within the tobacco value chain, particularly small traders.

The stakeholders called for a balance between public health objectives and the needs of businesses involved in the tobacco sector, specifically regarding a requirement for businesses to obtain a license from the relevant county executive committee member. This licensing proposal was criticized for potentially raising business costs and adding unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, as traders already pay fees for single business permits, effectively leading to double taxation.

Additionally, concerns were raised about a proposal to prohibit the sale of tobacco products within a 100-meter radius of any location primarily serving individuals under the age of 18. Stakeholders argued that this restriction could be challenging to enforce in densely populated and rapidly urbanising areas, questioning its practicality in real-world applications.

BAT Kenya's Senior Regulatory Affairs Manager, Billy Tsuma, acknowledged the tobacco industry's support for progressive regulation. However, he emphasized the need for amendments that are evidence-based, consultative, fit-for-purpose, and practically enforceable.