Principal Secretary for Public Health Mary Muthoni has instructed public health officers nationwide to crack down on smoking in public spaces, especially near schools and churches.
She explained that the Ministry of Health has zero tolerance for secondary smoking, which is still affecting children in the majority of households.
The PS also advised parents against smoking while with their children, saying secondhand smoke is even more harmful.
“We have zero tolerance for tobacco in schools and homes. Parents must not smoke around their children. Secondary smoking causes more harm; it is more dangerous,” said Muthoni.
She further explained that public health officials have the training and capacity to enforce restrictions on smoking near schools and churches.
“We have enough public officers in this country who are able, trained and have the requisite information to enforce,” said Muthoni.
Speaking at a public health forum in Gacharu village, Kirinyaga County, Mary Muthoni also cautioned young people against using illegal tobacco products, including Shisha and e-cigarettes.
“It is expensive, it is deadly. One electric cigarette will cost you not less than Ksh.3,000. How many youths will afford to get the puffs? They might end up stealing,” the PS said, pledging to sustain the crackdown on Shisha dens.
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