The hitmaker is now challenging prevailing perceptions about the drug. In a recent interview, he said, “I have never seen anyone go crazy because of weed. Wenye wana chizi ni because of other drugs” (Those who go crazy do so because of other drugs).
In Kenya, cannabis remains the substance of choice among narcotic users.
A 2017 national survey revealed that at least 1% of the country’s population aged between 15 and 65 years are current users of cannabis.
Shockingly, the influence of cannabis has seeped into educational institutions, with current data indicating that 7.5% of high school students have experimented with the drug, along with 1.2% of primary school pupils.
Bensoul’s advocacy aligns with a global trend toward the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana.
Internationally, nineteen states, two territories, and the District of Columbia in the United States have already legalized small amounts of cannabis for adult recreational use.
This shift reflects a growing acknowledgment of the relatively low harm potential of marijuana compared to other substances.
The singer’s plea for legalization is grounded in the belief that marijuana, when used responsibly, does not lead to the destructive consequences associated with harder drugs.
Bensoul’s perspective echoes a call for a more nuanced and evidence-based approach to drug policy, emphasizing harm reduction and education rather than punitive measures.
As the conversation around marijuana legalization gains momentum globally, Bensoul’s voice adds a unique dimension to the discourse in Kenya. He is now challenging stereotypes and advocating for a more informed and open-minded approach to the drug ban and usage.
