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The Tobacco Control Alliance has raised alarm over the increasing use of shisha and nicotine products among students, urging stronger awareness campaigns in schools and universities.
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Chairperson Joel Gitali said the alliance is empowering learners through peer education, guidance and counselling, while calling for greater community action to protect children and youth from tobacco addiction.
The Tobacco Control Alliance (TCA) has raised concern over the rising use of shisha and other nicotine products among young people, particularly university and school students, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to the country’s future workforce and leadership.
Speaking during a public participation forum on the proposed shisha ban in Kakamega, Tobacco Control Alliance Chairperson Joel Gitali said the increasing popularity of shisha among learners is contributing to health risks, substance abuse and unrest in learning institutions.
Gitali expressed concern that university students; who are expected to become the country’s future leaders—are increasingly falling victim to tobacco and nicotine products allegedly promoted by influential individuals.
He also noted a worrying rise in shisha consumption among female students, adding that misconceptions about the drug’s effects have contributed to its growing use.
“As an alliance, we are creating awareness in universities, colleges and secondary schools by engaging students through capacity-building programmes so that they can educate and support their peers,” said Gitali.
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He emphasized that students are often best placed to identify colleagues using nicotine products and can play a critical role in discouraging drug abuse through peer education.
“We may not know who consumes shisha, but students know each other. When they are empowered with the right information, they can protect themselves and their fellow learners from nicotine addiction,” he said.
Gitali said empowering young people with knowledge enables them to become role models in their schools, homes and communities while strengthening the anti-tobacco campaign.
The alliance is also working with teachers to promote guidance and counselling programmes in schools, technical institutions and universities as part of efforts to curb shisha and tobacco use among learners.
He further revealed that tobacco use is beginning at an alarmingly young age, with reports indicating that some children as young as six years are using oral nicotine pouches and cigarettes in both urban and rural areas.
The Tobacco Control Alliance is partnering with local administrators and community members to enhance public awareness and identify individuals involved in exposing children to tobacco and nicotine products.
By Hilda Atika
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