- NACADA has expressed concern over the growing use of Airbnb rentals for drug-related activities.
- Authorities link the trend to intensified crackdowns on illicit drug operations in public entertainment spots.
- Reports indicate that in Nairobi, 23% of young adults have used drugs at social events, with Airbnbs being a common venue.
- The agency is urging stricter monitoring and for hosts to report any suspicious activities.
The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has warned that short-term rental spaces, particularly Airbnbs, are increasingly being used for drug-related gatherings. In a statement issued on Monday, March 10, the agency noted that a growing number of these accommodations are being turned into spaces for substance abuse, illicit alcohol consumption, and even incidents of overdose fatalities.
“Recent findings indicate that some of these rentals are being repurposed for drug-fueled parties, illegal alcohol use, and, in severe cases, fatal overdoses,” NACADA stated.
Enforcement Actions Driving Drug Trade to Private Spaces
NACADA linked the shift to private rental spaces to heightened government enforcement against drug-related activities in public places. Authorities have been targeting illicit drug networks operating in entertainment joints, residential neighborhoods, and urban centers, prompting those involved to seek more discreet venues such as Airbnbs.
“The intensified operations by NACADA, in collaboration with law enforcement, have disrupted drug activities in public areas, forcing individuals involved in the trade to move their dealings to private rental spaces where they can avoid detection,” the agency explained.
Nairobi Among the Worst Affected
According to NACADA, the situation is particularly concerning in Nairobi, where studies indicate that nearly a quarter of young adults aged 18-24 have engaged in drug use at social gatherings, with Airbnbs accounting for a significant portion of these cases.
“In the past year, there have been multiple reports of young people consuming drugs in private rental spaces, some cases resulting in fatal overdoses. A surge in such incidents in Nairobi has underscored the urgent need for closer regulation and monitoring of short-term accommodations,” the statement added.
Call for Action from Airbnb Hosts and Authorities
To curb the rising misuse of these properties, NACADA is calling on Airbnb owners and property managers to step up their oversight, ensuring that their premises are not being used for illegal activities. The agency is urging them to be more diligent in screening guests and to report any suspicious behavior to authorities.
“This matter requires urgent intervention from all involved parties. We urge Airbnb hosts and property owners to conduct thorough background checks on guests and promptly report any suspicious activities to the authorities,” NACADA emphasized.
As cases of drug abuse in private rental spaces continue to increase, NACADA is pushing for tighter enforcement and stronger collaboration between property owners and law enforcement agencies to prevent further misuse of these accommodations.
