Tobacco harm reduction (THR) experts in Kenya are urging the adoption of science-based regulations to help smokers transition from traditional cigarettes to less harmful alternatives.
Speaking at the inaugural Harm Reduction Society of Kenya workshop in Nairobi, specialists emphasized the need for pragmatic strategies to reduce the health risks of tobacco use, which is linked to over 8,000 deaths annually in the country.
Dr. Michael Kariuki, Secretary General of the Harm Reduction Society, highlighted the importance of scientifically backed approaches to lower tobacco-related illnesses. He called for an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act to include new, less-risky products, noting that such measures have helped smokers quit in countries like the UK and Sweden. The specialists also discussed the importance of protecting youth while providing adult smokers with safer alternatives.
According to the Ministry of Health, Kenya has approximately 2.3 million tobacco users, and the push for regulation comes as part of efforts to reduce preventable deaths from tobacco use. Dr. Suely Castro, Director of Quit Like Sweden, praised Sweden’s successful implementation of harm reduction strategies and encouraged Kenya to tailor similar approaches to its own context.
