Leading health experts have criticized Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni for her “unfounded and misleading” comments about smoke-free alternatives to cigarettes.
Muthoni offered no scientific evidence to back up her remarks about the “dire health implications” of vapes and nicotine pouches, which are the subject of proposed legislation being considered by Parliament.
Dr. Michael Kariuki, Secretary General of the Harm Reduction Society of Kenya (HRS), said: “The Principal Secretary’s remarks ignore global scientific consensus and risk discouraging smokers from adopting safer alternatives that could save their lives. This approach will harm public health and delay progress in reducing smoking-related deaths.”
HRS emphasized that smoke-free nicotine products, such as vapes and nicotine pouches, are proven to be significantly less harmful than combustible cigarettes. These products have been instrumental in helping millions worldwide to quit smoking. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that nicotine does not cause cancer and lists nicotine replacement therapies, such as patches and gums, as essential medicines.
“Scientific evidence shows that most tobacco-related harm is caused through burning, and non-combustible nicotine products can reduce harm dramatically,” said Dr. Kariuki.
“Kenya should embrace these safer alternatives, as many countries such as Sweden, the UK, and New Zealand have done successfully, instead of adopting knee-jerk opposition without any scientific grounding.”
The society called on lawmakers to focus on evidence-based regulation that ensures the safety and accessibility of these alternatives to adult smokers while promoting their role in harm reduction. “We need policies that empower smokers to make healthier choices rather than perpetuating fear and misinformation,” Dr. Kariuki added.
HRS also urged the Ministry of Health to engage with public health experts, researchers, and stakeholders to create policies grounded in science.
“Rejecting harm reduction strategies at this critical time condemns many smokers to preventable suffering and death,” Dr. Kariuki warned. “We stand ready to work with the government to develop pragmatic solutions that prioritize saving lives.”
