Government introduces new subject in schools

Cigarette abuse awareness will now be introduced in primary and secondary schools, the Government has said.

According to Tobacco Control Unit Head Dr Dorcas Kiptui, the new subject will be introduced in schools to mitigate the effects of tobacco.

Dr. Kiptui pointed out that the subject of cigarettes was also fused into Kenya’s health system.

"We have already incorporated tobacco control in the primary and secondary schools curriculum in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

"It is clear from the findings of various studies that increased awareness through education has long-term consequences on those abusing certain tobacco products," Kiptui said on Tuesday.

Official World Health Organisation data found that in 2013 about 6.4 billion cigarettes were smoked in Kenya. In 2015, the figure had climbed to over 8 billion. We are in 2018 and the number is likely to be higher.

According to International Tobacco Control Kenya survey 2015 report, three million Kenyans aged 15 and above smoked cigarettes.

The survey done in 21 counties showed that 83 percent of men were smokers.

The statistics did not capture those exposed to second-hand-smoke (smoke that has been exhaled or breathed out, by the person smoking).

Smoking is one habit that knows no boundaries and brings together the rich and poor, old and young, and people of different colour, religion, culture, and language.