Kenya has nearly five million smokers

The US and Europe are tightening their controls on the big tobacco companies through stringent laws and lawsuits.

But the companies are finding fertile markets in Africa. In Kenya alone, a quarter of the population - nearly five million people - are smokers.

Lifestyle diseases

The battle between health care activists and cigarette manufacturers came to the fore last week with anti-smoking campaigners accusing cigarette makers of undermining their efforts through advertising.

Maringo wants specific health warnings on cigarettes

Dr Charles Maringo, the chairman of the Tobacco Control Committee, says there should be a ban on billboard advertising as well as on television and radio.

"We are beginning to see medical problems such as cancer of the lungs and throat, respiratory problems and heart diseases which are all directly related to tobacco," said Dr Maringo.

Anti-smoking campigners want the government to prohibit cigarette manufactures from sponsoring sporting events.

They also want most public places declared smoke-free zones.

Kenyan culture

British American Tobacco (BAT), acknowledges the health risks associated with smoking but feels it should be treated as a right for those who chose smoking as their preferred lifestyle.

Burrel says smoking is a lifestyle choice

"Our position is that to smoke is a lifestyle choice and adults, armed with appropriate advice and information, should be free to take the decision," said Chris Burrel, BAT managing director in Kenya.

Mr Burrel said smoking is part of the Kenyan culture and rejects WHO proposals for a global ban on tobacco advertising.

"We approve and endorse the use of health warnings on all packs of cigarettes," he said.

Parliament's approval

Kenya earns nearly $100m in revenue from tobacco companies.

Losses to the tobacco industry could lead to a loss of jobs and economic dislocation.

But anti-smoking campaigners are fighting tooth and nail to protect millions of poor Kenyans who end up suffering from smoke-related diseases.

The ball is in parliament's court to approve the new controls to ban tobacco advertising.

However many Kenyans say anti-smoking laws would do little to curb the urge to smoke.