Launch of the Wastewater Analysis to Assess Emerging New Psychoactive Substances and Illicit Drug Use in Kenya

NACADA launched a report on Wastewater Analysis to Assess Emerging New Psychoactive Substances and Illicit Drug Use in Kenya.
It is the first study of its kind in Kenya, using wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) combined with drug samples and focus groups to identify emerging drug trends.

The study analyzed 152 samples (48 wastewater, 104 drug samples) from 12 hotspot counties across Kenya’s 8 regions. It confirmed traditional drug use (cannabis, heroin, cocaine) but crucially identified New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), emerging synthetic drugs, evidence of small-scale clandestine labs, dangerous adulterants in heroin/cocaine, and widespread poly-drug use. The report concludes with 9 major recommendations, including the establishment of a national early warning system.

Key Highlights

1. Traditional Illicit Drugs Remain Prevalent

2. New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) Confirmed for the First Time in Kenya

3. Emerging Psychoactive Substances Also Found

4. Evidence of Small-Scale Clandestine Labs

5. Dangerous Adulterants & Cutting Agents

6. Prescription Drug Abuse is Widespread

7. Poly-Drug Use Patterns Are Common

Conclusion

Kenya is experiencing a rapidly evolving drug landscape – from traditional cannabis/heroin to synthetic NPS, local production, and hazardous adulterants. The report strongly advocates for proactive, data-driven, and multi-agency responses rather than reactive enforcement alone.

CLICK HERE for the full report.