Kisumu Traders Oppose Proposal to Raise Minimum Smoking Age to 21

A faction of hospitality traders based in Kisumu County have voiced opposition to a proposal aimed at elevating the minimum smoking age from 18 to 21 years, expressing skepticism about the feasibility and enforcement of such a measure. During a public engagement session on the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill in Kisumu on Saturday, the traders pointed out the lack of clarity surrounding the proposal's implementation and enforcement.

The proposal was initially discussed during a stakeholders' engagement forum held in Nairobi earlier in the week, where it garnered support from some stakeholders. Committee Chairperson Dr James Nyikal stated that there was a strong consensus among stakeholders regarding the increase in the minimum age for purchasing nicotine products.

He expressed satisfaction as a committee, noting that this would reduce their workload when reviewing stakeholder submissions. However, in Kisumu, Dan Ouma, Chairperson of the Pubs, Entertainment and Restaurants Association of Kenya (PERAK), raised questions about the practicality of the proposed age limit. Ouma challenged the feasibility of enforcing the proposed increase, questioning whether consumers would need to present identification documents before making purchases and whether additional identification measures would be necessary.

He also inquired about the practicality of such requirements, suggesting that it might necessitate the issuance of new identification cards for consumers. Furthermore, the traders raised concerns regarding another proposal within the bill, which would restrict the sale of tobacco and nicotine products within a 100-meter radius of areas frequented by children.

They argued that existing tobacco-control regulations already encompass designated smoking areas and other measures aimed at mitigating exposure to tobacco smoke. The traders also opposed a proposal requiring businesses dealing in tobacco products to obtain county-specific licenses, contending that this requirement would escalate the cost of conducting business.

They pointed out that businesses already incur expenses associated with single business permits and questioned the necessity of an additional tobacco-specific license. The Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill seeks to revise the Tobacco Control Act of 2007 by introducing additional regulations governing tobacco and emerging nicotine products.

Following the public participation exercise in Kisumu and Nanyuki, the National Assembly Committee on Health will consolidate stakeholder and public submissions before finalizing its report for consideration by the National Assembly.