Cannabis Legalization Debate Puts Kenya’s Drug Policy Under Fresh Scrutiny
Cannabis Legalization Debate Puts Kenya’s Drug Policy Under Fresh Scrutiny
By Julius Gitau
NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya’s long-standing laws on cannabis have once again come under national attention following a heated debate in the National Assembly, where lawmakers expressed sharply divided views on whether the country should reconsider its strict position on the substance.
The discussion emerged during parliamentary deliberations on health-related issues and quickly evolved into a broader debate involving public health, law enforcement, economic opportunities, and shifting global attitudes toward cannabis use. The exchange highlighted growing interest among some political leaders in reviewing existing drug laws, even as others maintained strong opposition to any form of legalization.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvG6ts6jbOU
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris was among the lawmakers calling for a more open and evidence-based national conversation on cannabis regulation. She argued that despite its illegal status, cannabis remains widely available in many parts of the country, suggesting that current laws may not be effectively addressing the issue.
Passaris stated that the conversation around cannabis has increasingly shifted worldwide from criminal justice concerns to discussions about public health, medicinal use, and economic potential. She urged policymakers to study approaches adopted in other countries that have legalized or regulated cannabis use.
However, her remarks faced strong criticism from legislators who warned that legalization could expose more Kenyans, especially young people, to drug abuse and addiction.
Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo strongly rejected calls for legalization, saying she was “naturally high” and did not need drugs or alcohol to enjoy life. She added that the only alcohol she had consumed was church wine, reaffirming her opposition to intoxicating substances.
Meanwhile, Sirisia MP John Waluke argued that Kenya should not ignore the possible economic and medical benefits associated with cannabis. He noted that the global market for medicinal cannabis products continues to grow and suggested that a regulated framework could create jobs, generate tax revenue, and support healthcare innovation.
The debate mirrors discussions taking place in several countries around the world, including Canada, Germany, South Africa, and parts of the United States, where governments have either legalized cannabis for medical use or decriminalized it.
Despite the renewed parliamentary discussion, cannabis remains illegal in Kenya under existing laws. Possession, cultivation, and trafficking attract severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
Although the debate did not lead to any proposed legal changes, it underscored growing public and political interest in the future of cannabis policy in Kenya.