Adhere to Tobacco Control Act, says KETCA Treasurer Amugata

Tobacco industries must adhere to the Tobacco Control Act in order to save the youth from indulging in smoking. Kenya Tobacco Control Alliance (KETCA) Treasurer Linah Amugata said more youth were being influenced to smoke and called on tobacco industries to warn the users about its harmful effects.

She said the industries must stick to the set laid regulations by using pictures and warning signs on their brands to show its dangerous effects to discourage smokers.

Amugata lamented that many youth had resolved to smoke cigarettes and ‘shisha’ and a court ruling that the major industries must adhere to the laws is a reprieve to the organization.

She was speaking to the press at Vihiga county headquarters in Mbale town after a consultative meeting with health officials.

“We want the tobacco industries to follow laid down regulation to reduce diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis that are related to tobacco use,” said Amugata.

She added that the alliance’s aim is to educate members of the public about the effects of tobacco to reduce its use among Kenyans.

“We have created and will continue creating awareness among Kenyans about its dangers and consumption,” said Amugata.

She also said most farmers who practice its production are at higher risk of getting tobacco-related diseases because most of them do not use protective gears.

Amugata noted that about 45% of youth in Western smoke.