Kenya’s High Court has thrown out a case brought by Rastafarians who wanted cannabis use to be allowed on religious grounds.
The group argued that the country’s ban on cannabis goes against their constitutional right to freedom of religion and belief. For Rastafarians, smoking cannabis is a central part of worship and doctrine.
In his ruling, Justice Bahati Mwamuye said the community did not provide enough evidence to show that existing drug laws violate the constitution. However, he noted that the issue deserves wider discussion.
“This is not a question for the Rastafarian community only. It is a national question that cuts across the entire spectrum of our society,” the judge said. “We ought to have frank conversations on cannabis and which directions we should take.”
The decision comes as calls to legalise cannabis in Kenya continue to grow. Advocates say regulated growing and trade could create jobs, increase tax revenue, and support medical and industrial uses.
For now, cannabis remains illegal in Kenya, and the court’s ruling means the ban still applies to everyone, including for religious purposes.
