The government has published a new set of graphic health warnings for tobacco product packaging, stepping up efforts to reduce tobacco use and protect public health.

In a gazette notice, the Ministry of Health announced that this is the third batch of warnings issued under the Tobacco Control Act, with the new requirements taking effect nine months from the date of publication.

The images and pictograms are designed to increase awareness about the serious health dangers of tobacco, discourage smoking especially among the youth, and protect non-smokers from the harms of second-hand smoke.

In a statement, the Ministry of Health said, “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 urged the public to take an active role in implementation, including reporting non-compliance, supporting awareness efforts, and advocating for smoke-free spaces.

All manufacturers, importers, distributors, and sellers of tobacco products must comply fully with the new warning labels. Those who fail to adhere to the rules will face penalties as provided for in the Tobacco Control Act.

The new warnings are part of Kenya’s continued alignment with the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), which pushes for tougher action to curb tobacco use globally.

Kenya began enforcing text-only health warnings in 2008 and later introduced graphic warnings in 2016 to make the dangers of tobacco more visible.

The shift to images was aimed at better reaching the youth and other vulnerable groups by showing the real effects of smoking, such as cancer, heart disease, and lung problems.

The latest warnings are expected to further strengthen Kenya’s position as one of Africa’s leaders in tobacco control.