The National Agency for Campaign Against Drug Abuse (Nacada) has demanded regulatory action against 'Kuber,' a tobacco product allegedly adulterated with hard drugs, citing its growing prevalence among young people.
Described as a nicotine-rich tobacco mixture absorbed through oral contact, Kuber is reported to contain cocaine and bhang, according to Nacada. The agency argues that while classified under the Tobacco Act, its drug-laced formulation creates extreme addiction risks.
James Macharia, Nacada's Central regional director, highlighted the substance's appeal to students during a March 2019 sensitization event in Murang’a. He stated, 'The flavoured Kuber has been mixed with hard drugs, creating intense cravings difficult to overcome. Police cannot intervene as it remains legally categorized as tobacco.'
Macharia emphasized the need for strict controls, comparing the situation to the Shisha ban. He warned, 'Without immediate action, schoolchildren will face severe risks, threatening future generations.'
According to Nacada, Kuber has surpassed alcohol as the third most abused substance in the Central region, following bhang and traditional drugs.
