The government has vowed to continue with operations to enforce the shisha ban countrywide until it is upheld to the fullest.
This even as the Division of Drug and Substance Abuse Control, within the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards at the Ministry of Health in collaboration with a multi-agency team of law enforcement agencies conducted a crackdown on several illegal shisha outlets in Nairobi over the weekend.
The renewed operation comes amid growing public concern over the resurgence of shisha smoking in night clubs.
In a statement by the Ministry of Health, Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni noted that the operation is a critical step in ongoing efforts to enforce the national shisha ban and safeguard public health.
“During this weekend’s operation, several offenders were arrested, and multiple shisha delivery systems were impounded. Those taken into custody will be arraigned in court on Monday for violating the law.” the PS said.
She emphasized that the enforcement exercise was just the beginning adding that the health ministry remains committed to protecting the health of the Kenyans.
“We wish to emphasize that this enforcement exercise is just the beginning. Operations to enforce the shisha ban will continue countrywide until this ban is upheld to the fullest. The Ministry of Health remains committed to protecting the health of our citizens and will work tirelessly to eliminate violations of this ban.” She emphasized.
Further the PS urged the public to support the government’s efforts by reporting any illegal shisha outlets to the relevant authorities.
Kenya implemented a comprehensive ban on shisha in 2017, including the use, import, manufacture, sale, offer of sale, advertising, promotion, distribution and encouraging or facilitating its use.
Also read https://www.kbc.co.ke/three-arrested-during-nacada-shisha-raid-in-nairobi/