Nairobi, Kenya – Members of the Rastafarian community have appeared before the High Court to defend the religious use of cannabis, describing the plant as sacred and central to their spiritual practices.
In a petition filed before the court, the community argues that current laws prohibiting private cannabis use violate their constitutional rights, particularly the freedom of religion. They assert that cannabis is integral to worship and meditation, helping them seek spiritual guidance and solutions to societal challenges.
A witness told the court that the plant is used in both group and private worship through a practice known as “reasoning,” where members meditate and discuss issues affecting society. She emphasised that children are not allowed to participate and that only adults over 18 with national identification and a clear understanding of the practice may partake.
“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 said.
The community further explained that their practices are governed by a constitution that safeguards members’ welfare and ensures structured spiritual conduct. Despite this, members claim they have faced discrimination, social isolation, and legal challenges, often being arrested for possession under charges of drug trafficking, rather than for religious use.
“We are spiritual people. We have the holy herb for meditation, not for procreation,” the witness added.
The petition, filed through lawyers Shadrack Wambui and Danstan Omari, also highlights that several countries have moved to legalise or regulate cannabis use for religious or cultural purposes, setting precedents for protecting freedom of worship.
At the heart of the case is whether Kenyan laws restricting cannabis use infringe upon the constitutional right to freedom of religion for members of the Rastafarian faith. The court will now examine whether the spiritual significance of cannabis in Rastafarianism warrants exemption from existing prohibitions.
