According to the most recent National Campaign Against Drug Abuse Authority (NACADA) data, the Coast region leads Kenya in polydrug use.
NACADA describes polydrug use as the simultaneous or sequential use of two or more drugs by an individual, usually to enhance, amplify, or offset the effects of another drug.
According to the National Survey on the Status of Drugs and Substance Use in Kenya 2022, the area has the most significant prevalence of polydrug use at 10.5 per cent of its population, owing to its dynamic coastal cities and popular tourist destinations.
Because of the region's proximity to international drug trafficking routes, certain illicit substances may be more readily available and accessible.
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The growth alarmed health professionals because polydrug usage can result in serious health effects such as addiction, mental health difficulties, and an increased risk of accidents.
To address this rising issue, authorities in the Coast region have been asked to create focused preventive and treatment initiatives.
The North Eastern region, on the other hand, had the lowest rate of polydrug usage, with only 1.7% of the population affected. This region may have experienced drug distribution and availability issues with its dry and thinly inhabited sections.
The data also revealed a dramatic gender disparity in polydrug usage, with males considerably more likely to use than females.
Polydrug usage was reported by 12.8% of males but only 1.3% of females. The underlying causes of this disparity deserve more examination, including social and cultural variables, peer effects, and differences in drug preferences. In total, 7% of people aged 15 to 65 had used at least one drug or substance of abuse. Polydrug use increased slightly from 6% in 2017 to 6.5% in 2022.
