NACADA Reports Surge in Drug Abuse in Airbnbs

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) is sounding the alarm over the increasing use of short-term rental accommodations, such as Airbnbs, as hubs for illicit drug activity.

This shift comes as law enforcement intensifies crackdowns on drug operations in traditional public entertainment venues, pushing dealers to seek more discreet locations. NACADA revealed on Monday, March 10, that private rental spaces are now significantly linked to drug misuse, particularly among young adults. The agency reports that 23 percent of individuals aged 18 to 24 have experimented with drugs, with these private venues serving as critical conduits for such activities.

“We are intensifying surveillance, awareness campaigns, and collaborations with the police, county governments, and the private sector to curb this emerging threat,” NACADA reiterates.

This trend has been associated with a rise in drug-related incidents, including fatal overdoses. The authority’s concerns stem from evidence indicating that increased surveillance in public spaces has led drug traders to adapt their operations. By utilizing short-term rentals, they aim to evade detection and continue their illicit activities. NACADA is urging all stakeholders, especially Airbnb hosts, to heighten their vigilance and implement stricter regulations to mitigate these risks.

“The enforcement pressure has forced individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to shift their activities to seemingly discreet locations such as Airbnbs, where they attempt to evade scrutiny,” NACADA says.

A recent survey of university students further underscores the gravity of the situation. Nearly half of the respondents admitted to having used drugs at some point. Alarmingly, the survey also implicated university lecturers as potential suppliers, with campus canteens, bars, and nearby premises identified as key access points, accounting for over 59 percent of drug supply channels for young people. These revelations come at a time when Kenya is already grappling with significant substance abuse challenges.

NACADA is actively working to combat this issue by strengthening partnerships with law enforcement, county governments, and private sector entities. These collaborations aim to enhance awareness, curb the flow of illegal substances, and encourage Airbnb hosts to conduct thorough screening of guests and report any suspicious behavior to the appropriate authorities.