Want a review of the proposed amendments as pubic hearings go to seven counties Protesters during a procession to Parliament to present a petition by Kenyan bar owners and retailers who have asked lawmakers to reject the Tobacco Control Amendment Bill /FILE Businesses in retail, hospitality and tobacco-related sectors have raised concerns over proposed licensing requirements, flavour restrictions and other measures in the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2026 as MPs begin public hearings.
They warn that the proposals could increase operating costs and create opportunities for illicit trade. The concerns emerged as the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health began public participation hearings on the Bill, in Nairobi on Thursday, before moving to other parts of the country.
It seeks to amend the Tobacco Control Act, Cap 245A, and introduce tighter regulation of tobacco and newer nicotine products. The committee is holding hearings in seven counties between September 24 and 26, including Uasin Gishu, Bungoma, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, Laikipia and Kisumu.
“With an already existing licence burden, for instance on average, a supermarket requires 39 licences to operate. This Bill puts in a new licence that a retailer must get to sell tobacco,” she said. Mbarire said the proposed requirement could undermine efforts to simplify licensing and improve the ease of doing business.
“We feel that there is already enough regulation and there are already enough licences for retailers and businesses. An additional licence defeats the purpose of a unified business permit,” she said.