Harm Reduction Society Pushes for Policy Change on Alcohol, Tobacco, Cannabis and Pesticides

 By Brenda Oluoch 

The Harm Reduction Society of Kenya is calling for urgent policy reforms to address the dangers posed by alcohol, tobacco, cannabis and hazardous pesticides. 

Speaking during an interview at the Law Society of Kenya annual conference, the Society’s Secretary General, Dr. Kariuki Michael Ndung’u, a consultant paediatrician, epidemiologist, researcher and public health advocate  said evidence-based strategies could save thousands of lives.

“Our focus is on four products that cause immense harm to Kenyans ,alcohol, tobacco, cannabis and pesticides, we want to protect non-users, especially youth and children, while helping current users transition to safer alternatives or quit altogether, ”said Dr Ndung'u.

He welcomed recent proposals by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) to raise the legal drinking age from 18 to 21 and limit advertising. 

“These measures will reduce access to alcohol by young people,” he said.

He emphasised the need for a continuum of care for recovering alcoholics, including safe houses where they can learn new skills before reintegrating into society.

“Relapse rates remain high because rehabilitation is often followed by immediate exposure to the same harmful environments,” he explained.

For tobacco, the Society advocates for safer nicotine alternatives and cessation therapies.

“Tobacco is the only legal product that kills when used exactly as intended, noting NACADA data showing some Kenyans start smoking as early as six years old,  reiterated Dr Ndungu.

 He called for protecting children and offering smokers practical, less harmful options.

The Society has also raised alarms about pesticides, citing research showing many potatoes sold in Kenyan markets are contaminated with chemicals banned in other countries. 

On cannabis, Dr. Ndung’u warned it remains the most abused illicit substance in Kenya, but said there is scope for reform through the controlled adoption of medical hemp. 

“Medical hemp has high CBD and very low THC, offering medicinal benefits without the psychoactive harm,” he explained.

He pointed to regional examples: “Uganda is cultivating medical hemp while strictly controlling recreational cannabis. Zambia is finalising its policy framework. Kenya should begin serious discussions.”

Dr. Ndung’u stressed that policy change must be coupled with public education and grassroots outreach in every county.

 “Our aim is to protect Kenyans from preventable harm while supporting those already affected to rebuild their lives,” he concluded.

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