Pressure, stress driving some students towards drug abuse

By Dama Muthui

Academic pressure and stress at Kenyan universities are driving some students toward dangerous coping mechanisms, leading to a sharp rise in drug and substance use on campuses.

“This is a national issue that requires collective attention,” NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa says, stressing the need for urgent interventions to protect students’ health and futures.

A 2024 national survey by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) showed that nearly half of university students (45.6%) have used at least one drug or substance in their lifetime - alcohol was the most common, followed by cigarettes, shisha, vapes and other substances.

"In the last 10 years, the consumption of cannabis has gone up by 90% and now we know where to put our focus" added Omerikwa, emphasizing that from the research conducted now NACADA'S focus shifts to a certain demographic noting that youths in their prime who are the University students hold a 3% alcohol consumption which is above the national average.

A 2024 national survey by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) showed that nearly half of university students (45.6%) have used at least one drug or substance in their lifetime. Alcohol was the most common, followed by cigarettes, shisha, vapes and other substances.

NACADA’s findings also showed that 26.6% of students reported current substance use, suggesting the problem is not just experimental but ongoing for many learners.

According to the report, availability of drugs on and near campuses is high with alcohol accessible to 87.3% of students, cigarettes to 64.4%, and shisha to 41.2%. Emerging products like nicotine pouches, vapes and cannabis edibles are also increasingly common.

NACADA data found that friends, peers and social circles are the primary routes into substance use, with close contacts cited as the top source of drugs. University canteens, local bars and even online platforms also play significant roles in how students obtain substances.

A fourth-year student Amos Mutisya not his real name, explains how stress and peer influence drew him into substance use after high school. He describes how frustration, family issues and academic pressure have made quitting difficult.

“There are days I resist and days I relapse,” he said, noting that his use has reduced since becoming busier with studies.

Officials say the problem extends beyond recreational use, many students cite relief from stress and anxiety as reasons to self-medicate with alcohol or other drugs.

The NACADA report also highlights involuntary introductions to substances, including during social events and cultural rites of passage, with some students first exposed by relatives or older peers.

University administrations are responding.  Erick Mutua a student leader from Daystar University states that the institution is strengthening counselling services, sensitisation programmes and disciplinary measures. Students found using substances on campus face warnings, mandatory counselling or possible suspension and expulsion.

“Daystar University enforced strict discipline on drug and substance use, offering counselling and sensitisation programmes while applying warnings, mandatory counselling, suspension or expulsion for violations to protect student welfare," Erick states.

Psychologists point to ongoing awareness campaigns and accessible counselling as key interventions to curb the trend. Experts urge parents and guardians to maintain open communication with students about stress, decision making and the long-term impacts of substance use.

“Parents should talk openly with their children about the dangers of drugs and help them make sound decisions, and counselling services must support young people dealing with stress, relationships or financial challenges to protect their future,” Dr. Geoffrey Wango states.

As universities work to balance academic excellence with student wellbeing, stakeholders say the challenge demands honesty, collective support and sustained action, because today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders.