Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has called for a massive countrywide crackdown to eradicate illegal nicotine and medicines sold in many outlets across the country.
Muthoni revealed that there are many illegal nicotine products which are affecting the health of especially young Kenyans aged 15 years and above, who are using products readily available in bars and chemists.
She has called on the Tobacco Control Board and Pharmacy and Poison Board to launch a massive crackdown to wipe out all illegal nicotine products such as pouches which are put under the tongue and also electric cigarettes.
She says that many respiratory and liver ailments and cancer have been attributed to use of non-approved nicotine products which are being sold in the shops, clubs and in chemists.
Muthoni says that such products are being sold secretly to school going children by unscrupulous traders who hang around schools.
She has issued a warning to those selling illegal substances to young Kenyans calling on the two boards to intensify operations and arrest those behind the illicit trade.
She says it’s unfortunate that some pharmacies are stocking illegal medicine in the selves calling for all stakeholders to join hands in the fight against illegal medicines, drugs and illegal nicotine products.
Muthoni was speaking in Kerugoya on Wednesday, accompanied by Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari, who supported calls for eradication for all illegal brewers, drugs and non-approved nicotine products.
The MP supported a high court ruling on legality of Muratina, which he says should only be allowed for traditional ceremonies.
By Johnson Muriithi