Cannabis Harm Reduction

Cannabis Harm Reduction in Kenya

Cannabis is widely used across Kenya, yet accurate public health information remains limited. HRSK provides evidence-based education on cannabis, addressing both the risks associated with problematic use and advocating for compassionate, science-driven policy responses.

Cannabis harm reduction aims to reduce health and social risks linked to non-medical cannabis use while supporting public health goals. Evidence from African countries shows the value of clear regulations, quality standards, risk communication, and access to care pathways.

Our programme focuses on reducing harms particularly among young people and advocates for policies that prioritise public health over criminalisation — informed by international and regional evidence on what approaches actually work.

Risk Communication

Providing non-stigmatising information about potency, routes of use, impaired driving, pregnancy risks, and mental health implications of cannabis use.

Product Standards

Implementing contaminant testing and labelling of THC/CBD content to reduce adverse events. Clear product information allows users to make safer, more informed choices.

Youth Protection

Enforcing age limits, safe packaging, prevention programmes, and early-use screening to protect young people from the greatest harms associated with cannabis use.

Lower-Risk Use Guidelines

Supporting delayed initiation, lower-THC products, and non-combustible use methods to minimise harm for those who choose to use cannabis.

Clinical Pathways

Training healthcare providers to screen for cannabis use, offer brief interventions, and manage cannabis use disorders with compassion and evidence-based approaches.

Policy Coherence

Ensuring alignment across health, agriculture, trade, and justice sectors. Equity-centred approaches that reduce criminal penalties and support diversion-to-care programmes.

Zambia

Implemented the Cannabis Act and Industrial Hemp Act in 2021, allowing cultivation and research under strict licensing — including a 20,000-hectare hemp project by the Zambia National Service.

Uganda

Decriminalised cannabis and miraa in 2023 and has begun issuing experimental medicinal cannabis licences to producers, reflecting a shift toward evidence-based policy.

South Africa

Permits medicinal cannabis cultivation and has decriminalised personal use — serving as an important regional precedent for harm reduction-oriented cannabis policy.

Kenya

HRSK advocates for evidence-based cannabis policy reform that prioritises public health, particularly youth protection and medical access, over criminalisation.