On 19-7-2024, Stowelink Foundation had the honor of participating in the launch of the comprehensive study report titled “The Landscape of New-Generation Tobacco and Nicotine Products Consumption in Kenya: Challenges for Public Health, Tax Regulatory Framework, and Way Forward.” This event, organized by the National Taxpayers Association (NTA), brought together key stakeholders, including policymakers, health professionals, educators, and community leaders, to discuss the findings and recommendations of this pivotal study.

About the National Taxpayers Association (NTA)

The National Taxpayers Association (NTA) is a national, independent, non-partisan organization committed to promoting good governance in Kenya. Since 2006, NTA has been dedicated to citizen empowerment, enhancing public service delivery, and building partnerships to strengthen government service performance and accountability. Their programs focus on monitoring the quality of public services and the management of public funds, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.

The Report: A Deep Dive into New-Generation Tobacco and Nicotine Products

The report, commissioned by NTA, delves into the consumption patterns of novel tobacco and nicotine products in Kenya. It assesses the economic impact of these products and highlights the urgent need for robust policy interventions. The study provides valuable insights into the challenges posed by new-generation tobacco and nicotine products to public health and the existing tax regulatory framework. The findings underscore the critical need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the health risks and economic consequences associated with these products.

Stowelink Foundation’s Participation

Stowelink Foundation was represented at this significant event by its CEO, Ogweno Stephen, and COO, Oduor Kevin. Their participation underscored Stowelink’s commitment to addressing the growing public health challenges posed by new-generation tobacco and nicotine products. The event provided an excellent platform for Stowelink to engage with other stakeholders, share insights, and collaborate on developing effective solutions to tackle the issues highlighted in the report.

The Importance of Collaborative Action

The launch of this report is a crucial step towards understanding the landscape of new-generation tobacco and nicotine product consumption in Kenya. It calls for a collective effort from various sectors to implement the recommendations and address the public health and economic challenges identified. Stowelink Foundation is dedicated to playing a pivotal role in this endeavor, leveraging its expertise in NCDs and community health to advocate for stronger policies and public awareness.

Conclusion

Stowelink Foundation is proud to be part of the collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the challenges posed by new-generation tobacco and nicotine products in Kenya. The insights gained from this report will inform our advocacy and intervention strategies as we continue to work towards a healthier, tobacco-free future for all Kenyans.