The county assembly of Nakuru is considering passing a motion that will create designated smoking areas and make general public smoking illegal.
The motion, popular with most elected ward representatives, was moved by Nyota ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) John Gicamu.
The motion also seeks to compel the Nakuru County government to set aside smoking zones in the county. Gicamu said county residents have fallen victims in cases where smokers are allowed to freely do it in the public without designated areas.
“The residents around the town have been suffering as a result of second hand smoking,” the MCA said.
“This is as a result of uncontrolled smoking in the public. It is a pity because they themselves suffer from products they do not actually consume.”
Gicamu said that the 2007 by-laws under the former municipal council should be implemented to curb public smoking as well as protect the environment.
In support of the motion, he indicated that the only possible way to curb the spread of cancer in the region was to put in place measures that will regulate smokers for the sake of other members of the public.
MCAs praised the motion, saying it will help prevent young men and women from indulging in smoking at a tender age.
If approved, the law will deter smoking in public, except at designated places.