Kenya has become the first country in East Africa to launch a comprehensive wastewater-based drug surveillance report, marking a major milestone in the region’s fight against drug and substance abuse.
The report, unveiled by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), introduces a scientific method of monitoring drug consumption trends through the testing and analysis of sewage and wastewater samples collected from different parts of the country.
Experts have described the initiative as a breakthrough in evidence-based drug control and public health surveillance.
Study Conducted Across 12 Counties
The nationwide study involved the collection and laboratory analysis of 152 wastewater samples from 12 counties identified as drug hotspots.
The counties included Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Kiambu, Uasin Gishu, Isiolo, Nyeri, Kilifi and Garissa.
Scientists used advanced laboratory technologies, including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), UV-Vis Spectrophotometry and colorimetric testing, to detect traces of narcotics and psychoactive substances within municipal sewer systems.
Synthetic Drugs Raise Alarm
The findings revealed growing consumption of synthetic drugs and New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), raising concern among health experts and anti-drug agencies.
Among the substances detected were methamphetamine, MDMA commonly known as ecstasy, synthetic cathinones or “bath salts,” benzofurans, alpha-ethyltryptamine, psilocybin and DMT.
Researchers also pointed to signs of possible clandestine laboratories involved in the local manufacture of synthetic stimulants.
NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa termed the findings alarming, warning that Kenya is increasingly shifting from being a transit route for narcotics to a country experiencing local production and widespread consumption of synthetic substances.
“This study provides concrete evidence that synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances are gaining a foothold in our communities,” said Dr. Omerikwa during the launch.
Dangerous Drug Adulteration Exposed
The report further revealed that many drugs circulating in the country are heavily mixed with harmful chemicals.
Heroin samples were reportedly adulterated with substances such as caffeine, diazepam, chloroquine and dextromethorphan, while cocaine samples contained levamisole and ketamine, chemicals associated with severe toxicity and increased overdose risks.
Researchers also documented increasing cases of poly-drug use, where users combine multiple substances such as heroin and cannabis or alcohol with prescription sedatives.
Another emerging trend highlighted in the report is the growing popularity of cannabis edibles, including “weed cookies,” particularly among young people.
Youth and Students Identified as Most Affected
The report indicated rising abuse of prescription medication among students and young adults aged between 13 and 25 years.
Experts warned that the changing patterns mirror trends already witnessed in Europe and North America, where synthetic substances and edibles have become increasingly common among youth populations.
NACADA said the findings demonstrate the urgent need for early detection systems and stronger public awareness campaigns targeting vulnerable groups.
Kenya Pushes for Real-Time Drug Surveillance
Following the findings, NACADA recommended the establishment of a National Wastewater Drug Surveillance and Early Warning System to support real-time monitoring of emerging drug trends.
The authority also proposed strengthening forensic and toxicology laboratories, enhancing border and online trafficking surveillance, expanding naloxone distribution programmes and improving public education on substance abuse.
The launch of the report positions Kenya as a regional leader in scientific and evidence-based approaches to drug control, while providing policymakers and health agencies with critical data to guide future interventions.
