This source of this report is from TUKO, published on 13 March 2026.
Lawyers representing the Rastafarian Association of Kenya appeared in the High Court on 13 March 2026, arguing that cannabis, locally known as ‘bhang’, is a holy sacrament, essential to the spiritual worship and meditation of the Rastafarian faith..
Shadrack Wambui and Danstan Omari, told the court that several countries across the world have begun legalising or regulating ‘bhang’ use, particularly where it is linked to cultural or religious practices.
Cannabis sativa is outlawed in Kenya under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act, 1994, though it may be used and cultivated in different parts of the country, its consumption and possession remains illegal, with offenders facing up to eight (formerly 15) years of imprisonment.
The High Court heard testimony from Nyangola Ruben Abasa, who identified himself as a Rastafarian spiritual practitioner and traditional healer. He told the court that cannabis played an important role in spiritual healing and meditation within the community.
Another community member, an unnamed woman, explained to the court that cannabis was used during group “reasoning” sessions and sacred gatherings for meditation.
“This plant has so many names. I have used it personally and in our place of worship. It is used among women, men and youth, but children are not allowed,” the witness told the court.
“As Rastafarians, you must be above 18 years, have an ID and know what you want to achieve in life,” she stated.
“We are spiritual people. We have the holy herb for meditation, not for procreation,” the witness added. “There is no fixed quantity, as it varies according to an individual’s need”.
Rastafarians in Kenya claim they suffer severe repercussions from using their “gift from God”, including family isolation, arrests, and court charges that are often escalated to drug trafficking despite only being for personal use.
Wambui and Omari cited various global cases where there are specific regions that have legalised or regulated the use of cannabis for religious, medicinal or cultural purposes.
The hearings continue.
Meanwhile in another cannabis-related court case in Kenya, the Daily Nation reported on 24 March 2026 that 24 year old Cornelius Kiprotich, of Sosian Village, Turbo, told the Eldorat Magistrates Court that he grew cannabis not to consume it, but for aesthetic pleasure.
“Your honour, I am not a drug peddler, I am a lover of nature. These plants were my source of peace….every time I look at them I feel a calm that no other flower can provide. I was tending to them to beautify my home and soothe my soul”. he said.
When asked by the magistrate why he didn’t plant roses instead, Kaprotich replied: “I stay away from roses because they attract women. I am not ready for the drama and complications that come with women right now. I prefer solace and the scent of my cannabis. They don’t ask me for anything, they just give me peace of mind” he said prompting laughter in the courtroom.
Kaprotich pleaded guilty and said he was remorseful. “I know its against the law of the land. I regret planting an illegal beauty”.
He is awaiting sentencing.
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