Kenya denies Rastafaris the right to smoke marijuana for religious reasons

Kenyan courts have rejected a request from the country's Rastafari community to freely consume cannabis, citing religious freedom. The ruling, delivered on July 15, 2026, upheld existing Kenyan legislation that criminalizes personal cannabis use with penalties of up to 10 years in prison and significant fines.

Despite denying the Rastafari's specific plea, the court acknowledged the ongoing debate surrounding cannabis in the country. It called for a broader national discussion on the drug's potential legalization, signaling a potential shift in public discourse on the matter.

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Kenyan legislation punishes the possession of cannabis for personal use with up to 10 years in prison and a high fine.

The Rastafari community had argued that cannabis consumption is an integral part of their religious practices and sought an exemption from the strict drug laws. Their petition highlighted the spiritual significance of the plant within their faith.

The legal proceedings took place amidst gatherings of Rastafaris outside the Milimani Courts in Nairobi, where they awaited the virtual verdict. The AFP news agency covered the event, noting the global context of cannabis legalization debates.

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Kenyan justice rejected the request of the country's Rastafari community, who asked to consume cannabis freely in the name of freedom of worship, although it urged opening a national debate on this drug.