Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Substance use poses a significant threat to the health, social and economic fabric of families,
communities and nations. In Kenya, alcohol and drug abuse has been identified as a hindrance
to education, development and by extension, to national development. Alcohol and drug abuse
has been associated with crime and indiscipline e.g. poor class attendance, poor performance,
school dropout and destructive strikes that lead to damage the institution property or even death.
Alcohol and drug abusers are also likely to lower their morals and engage in risky sexual activities
that can lead to sexually transmitted diseases including HIV infection and AIDS.
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study therefore was to explore on the perceptions and the magnitude of
substance abuse among undergraduate (University students) in the two public Universities in the
coastal region of Kenya. Also find amicable solutions to curb the menace that can destroy the
future of a generation aged between 18–29 years at the peak of their life.
METHODOLOGY
This was a qualitative study involving undergraduate (University students), dean of
students and counsellors from Pwani University and Technical University of Mombasa. Focus
Group Discussions(FGDs) and Key informant interviews were used to collect data. The number
of KIIs was guided by data saturation. Thematic analysis was done by identifying, coding, and
categorizing patterns or themes found in the data.
RESULTS
The problem of alcohol and substance abuse among undergraduate students was a reality.
The commonly abused substances were alcohol, miraa (khat), marijuana (cannabis) and cigarettes.
Some of the factors predisposing students to abuse drugs were; easy accessibility to drugs, peer
pressure, availability of funds, excess freedom, male gender, stress, not being active in religious
activities, poor parenting and the African culture that uphold substances such as alcohol as an
acceptable social drink. Participants noted that alcohol and drug abuse had led to various negative
effects. The major ones affecting the students being poor performance, risky sexual behaviour,
and mental disturbances. Participants suggested that Universities ought to intensify awareness
campaigns to sensitize students against substance use.CONCLUSION
The commonly abused substances were alcohol, marijuana, miraa (Khat) and tobacco.
Alcohol and drug abuse has left a negative impact among undergraduates (university students).
The main consequences being; discontinuation of studies, mental disturbances and risky sexual
activities. All stakeholders must take action creating awareness among students on the negative
effects of substance abuse. Universities should set up programs with an aim to curb substance
abuse in the institutions of higher learning. The government should reinforce the set laws and
regulations and deal with trafficking of illicit substances into the country.