Majority of Kenyan University Students Get Drugs Through Friends, Lecturers

A recent study by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has uncovered concerning trends in drug and substance abuse among university students in Kenya.

Covering 17 public and private institutions across eight regions, the report reveals that a significant 66.4 percent of students identify friends as their primary source of drugs. The study provides a detailed analysis of drug availability sources, with canteens, bars, and local establishments accounting for 59.3 percent of reported cases. Additionally, classmates within the universities contribute to 56.0 percent of the distribution, while online platforms, including social media, represent a growing avenue for obtaining narcotics, cited in 39.4 percent of incidents.

Notably, the report also implicates non-teaching staff and faculty members, with 11.4 percent and 7 percent respectively involved in substance provision. NACADA's findings highlight several risk factors that facilitate substance abuse among university students. The influence of peers, romantic relationships, and role models who misuse drugs are noted as significant contributors to these behaviours. Personal challenges, including difficulties with stress management, unresolved childhood trauma, gender-based violence experiences, and bereavement, further exacerbate the risk.

The report also identifies a lack of engagement with religious groups and the allure of gambling as additional contributing factors. In terms of substance accessibility, the findings are alarming. Alcohol tops the list, consumed by 87.3 percent of students, followed by cigarettes at 64.4 percent and shisha at 41.2 percent. The report indicates that other narcotics are alarmingly within reach, with 61.7 percent able to access smoked cannabis, 47.6 percent cannabis edibles, 15.1 percent cocaine, and 14.3 percent heroin.

Notably, cannabis edibles, including various products such as cookies, mabuyu, lollipops, and drinks, represent a discreet and increasingly appealing option for students. The consequences of this substantial drug use are profound, as reflected in academic performance. The study associates substance abuse with significant challenges, including the inability to participate in examinations or continuous assessment tests (CATs), frequent class absences, and various disciplinary infractions.

NACADA conducted this comprehensive study by gathering both quantitative and qualitative data from a sample of 15,678 respondents, which enhances the reliability of its findings. This report serves as a critical alert regarding the pervasive issue of drug abuse within higher education institutions, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in addressing this pressing problem.