The sale of nicotine pouches, particularly under the brand name Lyft, has been declared illegal in Nairobi following a report highlighting serious violations of the Kenya Tobacco Control Act.

Introduced to the Kenyan market in July 2019, Lyft was banned by the Ministry of Health in October 2020 after it was found to have been illegally registered as a pharmaceutical product by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.

Health Concerns and Regulatory Violations

According to a recent report by the Consumer Information Network, the Kenya Tobacco Control Alliance, and the International Institute for Legislative Affairs, nicotine pouches continue to be sold in the Kenyan market, now under the brand name “Velo.”

This reintroduction occurs despite the Ministry of Health’s directive that nicotine pouches must comply with the Tobacco Control Act, similar to other tobacco products.

The report emphasizes that these products pose significant health risks, including increased chances of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and adverse effects on reproductive health.

Samuel Ochieng, Executive Director of the Consumer Information Network, stated, “Nicotine as the primary constituent in nicotine pouches has been proven to have various adverse effects on human health.”

Calls for Action

In light of the findings, there have been calls from various stakeholders, including members of parliament, to ban the sale of Velo pouches in Kenya.

During a recent session, MPs questioned how these addictive products were allowed back into the market after the previous ban on Lyft.

Nominated MP Sabina Chege brought attention to the issue by presenting tins of Velo pouches in the National Assembly, highlighting the lack of adequate health warnings on the packaging.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha acknowledged the concerns raised and indicated that the Ministry of Health would establish a technical team to review the Tobacco Control Act and make recommendations regarding the regulation of nicotine pouches.