The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has issued a warning over the increasing misuse of Airbnb accommodations for drug-related activities.
In a statement on Monday, March 10, the agency noted that there is growing concern that private rental spaces, particularly airbnbs, are being turned into drug dens.
NACADA highlighted incidents where airbnbs have been misused for drug-fueled parties, illicit alcohol consumption and, in some cases, tragic fatalities due to substance overdoses.
"Recent incidents have revealed that these premises are being misused for drug-fueled parties, illicit alcohol consumption, and, in some cases, tragic fatalities due to substance overdoses," the statement read.
NACADA attributed the trend to crackdowns on illicit drug operations in entertainment venues, residential areas and urban centers.
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"NACADA, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has been conducting sustained crackdowns on illicit drug operations in entertainment venues, residential areas, and major urban centers.
"This 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," the statement added.
According to NACADA, the situation is alarming in Nairobi with data showing that 23% of young adults have engaged in drug use at social gatherings, with private venues such as Airbnb accounting for a significant percentage.
"Over the past year, multiple reports have emerged of young people having indulged in drugs in Airbbs, in some instances leading to deadly overdoses. 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 Airbnb accounting for a significant percentage of these cases," the statement further read.
In response, NACADA calls for urgent action from all stakeholders, urging Airbnb hosts and property managers to conduct thorough guest screenings and report suspicious activities.
"This situation calls for immediate action from all stakeholders and we urge Airbnb hosts and property managers to exercise due diligence in screening guests and flagging any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities," the statement added.
