A new report by NACADA shows that drug use in Kenya is growing fast, with at least 4.7 million people between 15 and 65 years using one or more substances.
The report, done with help from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics and the Tobacco Control Board, highlights alcohol as the most used drug, with 3.2 million Kenyans drinking regularly.
Tobacco is next, with 2.3 million users, followed by cannabis at over 518,000. More than 60,000 people are misusing prescription drugs, while 1.77 million are using multiple drugs at the same time.
Worryingly, the report reveals that drug use is starting at very young ages. Some children begin smoking at just 6 years old, start drinking at 7, and try cannabis or prescription drugs by 8. Use of hard drugs like heroin and cocaine begins around 18 to 20 years.
Cannabis use has increased by 90% in the last five years, raising concern among health officials.
NACADA says the country is facing high levels of addiction. Around 1.36 million people are alcohol addicted, 887,000 are tobacco addicted, and 234,000 are cannabis addicts.
In each of these categories, nearly half of the users are dependent.
The report urges the government to act quickly by enhancing rehab centres, creating awareness, and implementing stricter regulations to protect children.
