The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has expressed concern over bed-and-breakfast accommodations being turned into drug dens.
In an official statement dated Tuesday, March 6, 2025, the authority noted a worrying trend where some short-term rentals particularly bed and breakfast accommodations are being used for drug-fueled parties, illicit alcohol consumption, and, in some cases, fatal overdoses
According to NACADA, crackdowns on drug abuse in entertainment venues and residential areas have forced individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to seek more discreet locations, to evade law enforcement.
“The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has noted with growing concern the increasing trend where private rental spaces, particularly bed and breakfast accommodations, are being turned into drug dens. Recent incidents have revealed that these premises are being I misused for drug-fueled parties, illicit alcohol consumption, and, in some cases, tragic fatalities due to substance overdoses, “NACADA statement reads in part.
“NACADA, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has been conducting sustained crackdowns on illicit drug operations in entertainment venues, residential areas, and major urban centres. This enforcement pressure has forced individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to shift their activities to seemingly discreet locations such as bed and breakfast accommodations where they attempt to evade scrutiny.”
Drug abuse among youth
NACADA CEO Anthony Omerikwa further disclosed that a recent report by the authority indicated that 23 per cent of young adults aged 18-24 in urban areas have engaged in drug use at social gatherings, with private venues accounting for a significant portion of these cases.
He added that the rising cases of illicit drug abuse in Nairobi have heightened concerns over the need for stricter monitoring and regulation of short-term rentals
“Over the past year, multiple reports have emerged of young people having indulged in drugs in bed and breakfast accommodations, in some incidences leading to deadly overdose. In Nairobi, a string of such cases has raised alarms about the urgent need for firmer monitoring and regulation of short-term rental accommodations. A report by NACADA indicates that 23% of young adults aged 18-24 in urban areas have engaged in drug use at social gatherings, with private venues such as Airbnbs accounting for a significant percentage of these cases,”NACADA stated.
Omerikwa further urged bed-and-breakfast hosts and property managers to screen their guests more carefully and report any suspicious activities to the authorities
“This situation calls for immediate action from all stakeholders and we urge bed and breakfast accommodation hosts and property managers to exercise due diligence in screening guests and flagging any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities,” the statement reads.
As the misuse of bed-and-breakfast accommodations for substance abuse remains a serious concern, the NACADA CEO called on guardians and communities to stay vigilant and actively engage young people in positive activities to prevent drug abuse. He also urged the public to report any suspected drug-related activities through the agency’s free hotline.
“NACADA remains committed to fighting drug and alcohol abuse in all forms. We are intensifying surveillance, awareness campaigns, and collaborations with the police, county governments, and private sector players to curb this emerging threat. Parents, guardians, and communities must also remain vigilant and actively engage young people in constructive activities to steer them away from the dangers of drug abuse,” the statement reads.
“We call upon all Kenyans to report any suspected drug-related activities through NACADA’s hotline 1192 which is FREE and available for 24 Hours.”