Public participation in Meru focused on proposed changes to tobacco and nicotine product regulation.
Experts at a Meru public forum urged MPs to distinguish cigarettes from non-combustible nicotine products and reconsider a proposed ban on flavours.
Harm reduction experts have called for changes to the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
They want lawmakers to revise several provisions before the National Assembly considers the Bill.
The experts spoke during a public participation session in Meru County on Friday.
They questioned the lack of a tobacco control definition and proposed restrictions on nicotine products.
They also raised concerns about a proposed ban on flavours.
The experts said they support the Bill’s public health goals but want clearer provisions.
Experts Want Tobacco Control Defined
Dr Michael Kariuki, Secretary General of the Harm Reduction Society of Kenya, urged lawmakers to define tobacco control.
He proposed using the definition contained in the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Kariuki said neither the proposed amendment nor the 2007 Tobacco Control Act defines the term.
He argued that a clear definition would guide implementation and interpretation of the law.
The society considers the omission one of the issues requiring attention during the parliamentary review.
Call for Different Nicotine Rules
The experts also want lawmakers to distinguish between combustible and non-combustible nicotine products.
Combustible products include cigarettes, while non-combustible products include vapes and nicotine pouches.
Kariuki argued that treating all products under the same regulatory framework could limit options for adult smokers.
He called for a risk-based approach to tobacco regulation.
The society argues that combustible and non-combustible products have different risk profiles.
However, these claims remain part of the harm reduction community’s position on the proposed legislation.
Experts Oppose Blanket Flavour Ban
The proposed flavour ban also attracted criticism during the public participation session.
The experts argued that flavoured nicotine products could provide options for adult smokers seeking alternatives to cigarettes.
Kariuki said smokers trying to quit should have access to different options.
He also called for stronger enforcement of existing laws protecting children and young people.
The experts maintain that public health measures should address youth access while considering adult smokers seeking alternatives.
Tobacco Bill Before National Assembly
The Bill is sponsored by nominated Senator Catherine Mumma.
It seeks to amend the Tobacco Control Act of 2007 and create rules for new and emerging nicotine products.
These include vapes and nicotine pouches.
The Senate has passed the Bill, which is now before the National Assembly Committee on Health.
The committee is conducting stakeholder engagement and public participation before preparing its report.
The programme is expected to conclude on Saturday with sessions in Nanyuki and Kisumu.
MPs will consider the committee’s report as the Bill moves through the next stage of the legislative process.
