Public Health and Professional Standards PS Mary Muthoni has reaffirmed Kenya's dedication to implementing the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control and its Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products.
The PS expressed concerns about the rising use of novel tobacco products among women and outlined plans to amend the Tobacco Control Act.
Muthoni made the remarks after meeting the Head of the WHO Framework Convention for Tobacco Control Secretariat Adriana Blanco Marquiz during the 10th Conference of Parties Meeting in Panama.
''In our meeting, we discussed concerns about the increasing prevalence of novel tobacco product use among women and the government's plans to amend the Tobacco Control Act and Regulations to address this issue'' PS Muthoni said in a tweet on Thursday.
''We also highlighted Kenya's focus on prioritizing the implementation of Articles 9 and 10 of the FCTC by investing in local laboratory capacity to analyze the content and quality of tobacco products''
PS Muthoni said she reaffirmed Kenya's dedication to implementing the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control and its Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products, both of which Kenya has ratified.
The PS said that tobacco is a global health issue and the World Health Organisation has found some measures that will help in controlling and reducing smoking rates.
''The World Health Organization has found that these measures can reduce smoking rates by promoting cessation and preventing youth initiation. Let's continue to support and implement these measures to create a healthier world for all.'' she tweeted.
