Govt reiterates active ban on Shisha

A lady smoking Shisha pipe in a club. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

The Ministry of Health has reminded the public of the active ban on Shisha citing public health impacts.

Shisha is a type of flavored tobacco smoke that is inhaled through a single or multi-stemmed device, which passes through water or another liquid before reaching the smoker.

In a statement on Monday, Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni vowed to work with relevant stakeholders to crack down on users.

"The Ministry of Health together with other Government Agencies remain committed to enforcing this ban and urges all Kenyans to comply. We also call on law enforcement agencies to strengthen surveillance and take action against those violating this law," stated PS Muthoni.

The reminder follows the prohibition enacted in 2017 under the Public Health (Control of Shisha Smoking) Rules.

The law prohibited manufacturing, sale, and use of the product in the country.

PS Muthoni has highlighted some negative impacts of consuming the product urging the public to be cautious.

"Shisha smoking poses serious health risks, including respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and exposure to toxic chemicals. We appeal to the public to prioritize their health and that of their loved ones. Prevention is better than cure," she added.

After a legal challenge to the ban in 2018, both the High Court and the Court of Appeal in December 2024 upheld the prohibition.

The judges affirmed the ban citing that public health must be a priority over commercial Interests.

However, the product is still widely sold and circulated across the country majorly used in entertainment joints.