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The government's recent warning against the rising use of nicotine pouches, vapes, and electronic cigarettes among young people underscores a growing concern amidst efforts to curb tobacco consumption. Despite a decline in traditional tobacco use, there's a concerning proliferation of novel nicotine and emerging tobacco products, posing significant health risks.

Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni highlighted the deceptive marketing of these products as less harmful alternatives, particularly targeting the youth with appealing flavours and misleading health claims. Efforts to regulate these products are being ramped up, aligning laws with the Constitution and aiming to increase awareness of associated dangers.

The theme for this year's World No Tobacco Day, "Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference," resonates globally, emphasizing the need to shield young people from the harmful influence of tobacco companies. Kenya has made commendable progress in tobacco control, including stringent regulations, enforcement teams, and awareness campaigns targeting vulnerable groups.

Key achievements such as the Tobacco Control Act, which mandates graphic health warnings and bans smoking in public places, have significantly reduced exposure to second-hand smoke. However, challenges persist, necessitating continued vigilance and innovative approaches.

To mark the occasion, the Ministry of Health plans to promote cessation services, targeting healthcare facilities and educational institutions. Celebrating successes like 'Tobacco-Free Farms,' Kenya reaffirms its commitment to combating tobacco-related mortality and resisting industry influence.

As the nation commemorates World No Tobacco Day, it's imperative to recognize the collective responsibility to safeguard public health against the pervasive threat of tobacco and nicotine products. Through sustained efforts in regulation, awareness, and support services, Kenya strives towards a tobacco-free future for its citizens.

Israel Mbonyi's Nairobi Worship Concert: Ticket Details Revealed

‘Nina Siri’ Rwandese worship singer Israel Mbonyi has confirmed his upcoming performance in Nairobi, much to the excitement of his fans. The event is set to take place at the Ulinzi Sports Complex on August 10, 2024. Tickets for the concert are available now at Ksh3,000 for regular admission, Ksh8,000 for VIP, Ksh12,000 for VVIP, and Ksh20,000 for 1st class VVIP.

Family of Cheruiyot Kirui to Leave His Body on Mt. Everest After Fatal Climb

Following the death of Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui on Mt. Everest on May 22, 2024, his family decided to leave his body on the mountain. After careful consideration and consultations, they concluded that retrieving his body from 48 meters below the summit would be too risky. Cheruiyot loved the mountains deeply, and his family takes solace in knowing he rests in a place he cherished.

Fel, Thee Pluto Navigate Pressure for Baby Number Two

The pressure mounts on Felicity Shiru from her husband, Thee Pluto, for their second child, with him expressing a desire for a son. Fel, as she is known, opens up about the difficult decision on her YouTube channel, confronting Thee Pluto about his persistent requests. Despite his avoidance of the topic during their discussion, Fel reveals that he frequently expresses a desire for a son, using their daughter Zoey as a reason for wanting another child. However, Fel expresses reluctance, believing that children should not be planned but rather left to fate. Ultimately, they come to an agreement that there is no pressure from Thee Pluto.

New Submersible Mission Follows OceanGate Tragedy

Larry Connor, an Ohio businessman and billionaire, plans to embark on a sea exploration mission using Triton Submarines' advanced $20 million(Ksh2.6billion) Triton 4000/2 "Abyss Explorer." This submersible, touted as the world's deepest diving acrylic sub, can descend over 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) and will be piloted by Triton's CEO, Patrick Lahey. The trip comes nearly a year after the tragic OceanGate Titan submersible disaster, where five individuals, including OceanGate's CEO Stockton Rush, lost their lives during a mission to explore the Titanic wreckage.

Local Pastor Gifts Daughter Purity Ring on 17th Birthday

Pastor Chris and Joan Chege, founders of Fresh Fire Kingdom, have captivated audiences with their inspiring journey. Their public debut on a reality show hosted by Size 8 and DJ Mo in June 2020 unveiled their opulent lifestyle and distinctive matching outfits. Despite challenges, their bond, forged years ago in Ireland, remains unbreakable. In 2018, after 25 years in Europe, they took a leap of faith and returned to Kenya, a decision Pastor Joan described as their riskiest yet.

Celebrating their eldest daughter Juanita's 17th birthday, the Cheges gifted her a purity ring, symbolising her commitment to purity until marriage. This traditional gesture, shared on their joint social media page, highlights the significance of familial bonds and moral values in their household.

What is a purity ring, and what does it represent? Often called a fairy ring, a purity ring symbolises a vow to abstain from sexual activity until marriage, rooted in religious and moral beliefs, particularly within Christian communities. These rings serve as visible reminders of personal vows, often accompanied by ceremonies involving family, friends, or church congregations. While associated with sexual abstinence, modern interpretations extend to broader commitments to personal integrity and moral values.

Despite its popularity, the purity ring movement faces criticism for its emphasis on abstinence-only education and potential negative impacts on sexual health education. Nonetheless, for families like the Cheges, purity rings hold deep symbolic value, affirming their commitment to faith and family values.