In recent years, the issue of substance use has become a growing concern in Kenyan universities.
According to the African Journal of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, 60 per cent of college students in Kenya have engaged in alcohol consumption, with nearly half experiencing adverse effects of alcohol use disorder.
As higher learning institutions strive to address this pressing issue, it is crucial to examine the underlying factors contributing to the widespread problem of alcohol consumption among students.
One of the main drivers of alcohol consumption on campus is peer pressure. The desire to fit in and be accepted among peers often leads students to engage in drinking activities that they may not have otherwise chosen.
Sylvester Kamau, a student from one of the universities within Nairobi said, “The fear of missing out can lead adults or teenagers from cultures where alcohol is not normal to drink alcohol in a different culture where it is. This can be due to a desire to fit in with their peers. Peer pressure can also play a role in influencing young adults to drink alcohol in order to be accepted as part of a group. Additionally, overprotective parents who restrict their children's behavior may unconsciously push them to rebel and engage in activities like drinking alcohol once they have more freedom in college”.
The mentality that drinking is simply part of the college experience further perpetuates this trend, creating a culture where alcohol consumption is normalized and even encouraged.
Access to alcohol also plays a significant role in driving consumption, with the presence of numerous bars and parties on campus making it easy for students to obtain alcohol.
“I believe that the most prominent factor contributing to alcohol consumption among college students is social pressure. Many students feel the need to connect with their peers, leading to a sense of pressure.
Additionally, college life can be quite stressful, causing some students to turn to alcohol as a means of relaxation or as a coping mechanism for both academic and social stress. Another significant factor is cultural norms. In many college settings, drinking is commonplace and often linked to celebrations and social gatherings," John Irungu* a student from one of the colleges in Nairobi said.
For some students, alcohol serves as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety. The demanding academic environment, coupled with personal and social pressures, can push students to seek refuge in alcohol as a means of escape.
Becky Sheila* another student said, “When you have a group of friends that you spend a lot of time with, from attending classes to having meals together, their influence can be strong. If they engage in alcohol or drug use, they may encourage you to join them by saying it's not a big deal. Over time, you may find yourself getting used to it and it becomes a regular habit. Breaking away from this influence can be difficult, as it requires a lot of sacrifices.”
“Depression is another thing, campus life is not as easy as it may seem. Students face various challenges such as financial struggles, academic pressure, and relationship issues. When these stress becomes overwhelming, some students turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope and escape their problems. This can lead to a cycle of dependency and further worsen the underlying issues," she added.
James Nderitu* also a student from one of the universities in the city, said before joining campus, students have higher expectations which later lead to disappointment.
“Campus comes with a lot of expectations and a lot of people are not initially informed about the responsibilities before they join. However, later on, people realize that there is more responsibility than just freedom. Being an adult, people realize that a lot of responsibility falls on them. So, being new to that feeling and experience, there is a shortage of knowledge on how to balance the two. As a result, people turn to alcohol, as it is believed to have relaxing effects. It is seen as a way to solve problems. Slowly but surely, it becomes a habit."
Moreover, family history can influence a student's relationship with alcohol. Growing up in a household where parents consume alcohol and communicate that it is a negative habit can spark curiosity and a desire to experiment with alcohol once students gain newfound freedom on campus.
"Overprotective parents who restrict their children's behavior may inadvertently push them to rebel and engage in activities like drinking alcohol once they have more freedom in college. Additionally, if parents drink alcohol themselves but warn their children against drinking, it can lead to curiosity and experimentation with alcohol."
Rita Khayo, a capacity development officer at NACADA (National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drugs), emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse among students.
Enjoyment should not become a habitual behavior, as unchecked alcohol consumption can lead to a myriad of problems, ranging from academic performance issues to disciplinary challenges.
“Regarding the recommendation for safe drinking at social events, there is no such thing as safe drinking. Youths often start down the path of addiction by experimenting with alcohol at social gatherings, eventually leading to dependence. It is important to address these risky behaviors early and provide support and guidance to prevent future issues related to alcohol abuse.
“I want to emphasize that enjoyment should not become a habit, especially when it becomes habitual and occurs frequently, problems can arise. Particularly among campus students who may lack the same level of control they had at home. This lack of control can lead to various levels of abuse, starting from mild to severe based on the frequency of alcohol intake."
Research has shown that Kenyan drinking habits do not tend to be moderate or safe. In fact, a survey conducted in 2022 revealed that 42.4% of Kenyans are addicted to alcohol, highlighting a significant issue with binge drinking, especially among youth and campus students.
Alcohol affects the brain and can lead to intoxication and impaired decision-making, resulting in missed lectures, absenteeism, academic performance issues, and disciplinary problems.
According to Rita Khayo, addressing the issue of alcohol consumption among university students requires a multifaceted approach. Strategies to manage peer pressure and promote responsible drinking habits must be integrated into campus initiatives.
Encouraging students to be aware of their limits, seek support from counseling services, and engage in alternative social activities can help mitigate the negative impacts of alcohol consumption.
“It’s crucial to teach students life skills to resist peer pressure and make informed decisions, especially since their brains are still developing between the ages of 19 and 25."
Khayo said parents also play a role in monitoring and supporting their children during these crucial years, as they transition to young adulthood. Building strong bonds and maintaining communication with children even after they leave home is essential to guide them through the challenges they may face.
“We encourage peer-to-peer referrals, because for students, it's easier for them to talk to their fellow students than coming out. Sometimes when they come out they think they are being followed, or they're being targeted and so normally, we tell them we have our helpline number 1192, which they can call in discreet, in confidential, and talk to our counselors. They can talk to them on the phone, or come to the institution and get counseled,” Khayo said.
As the statistics paint a stark picture of alcohol use disorder among Kenyan youth, it is imperative for universities to prioritize the well-being of their students and provide resources for prevention and intervention.
By fostering a culture that promotes healthy habits and responsible decision-making, campuses can empower students to make informed choices regarding alcohol consumption and ultimately create a safer and more supportive academic environment.