The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (Nacada) has raised alarm over the increasing misuse of short-term rental accommodations for drug-related activities. According to the agency, these premises are being turned into drug dens, hosting illegal parties that involve illicit alcohol consumption and drug abuse, sometimes resulting in fatal overdoses.
Nacada CEO Anthony Omerikwa stated that sustained crackdowns on illicit drug operations in entertainment venues, residential areas, and major urban centers have pushed individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to move their activities to seemingly discreet locations, such as short-term stay rentals.
“This enforcement pressure has forced individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to shift their activities to seemingly discreet locations such as short-term stay rentals, where they attempt to evade scrutiny,” Omerikwa explained.
Recent incidents, particularly in Nairobi, have highlighted the dangers of these illegal gatherings, with reports of young people overdosing in rented apartments. Nacada’s research indicates that 23 percent of young adults aged 18-24 in urban areas have engaged in drug use at social gatherings, with short-term rentals accounting for a significant share of these cases.
“This situation calls for immediate action from all stakeholders, and we urge short-term stay rental hosts and property managers to exercise due diligence in screening guests and flagging any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities,” Omerikwa urged.
The Authority emphasized the need for enhanced monitoring and regulation of short-term rental accommodations to curb the growing menace. Nacada remains committed to tackling drug and alcohol abuse through intensified surveillance, awareness campaigns, and collaborations with the police, county governments, and private sector players.
Additionally, Omerikwa called on parents, guardians, and communities to be more involved in the lives of young people, ensuring they engage in constructive activities to steer them away from drug abuse. He encouraged Kenyans to report any suspected drug-related activities through Nacada’s 24-hour toll-free hotline 1192.
As cases of drug abuse continue to rise, the agency’s call for stricter regulation and heightened vigilance among all stakeholders is crucial in addressing this growing public health crisis.
