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Court Sets Date for Rastafari Society’s Ganja Decriminalization Petition

 Rastafarians urge the High court to end decades of stigma and discrimination, insisting that ganja is a sacred herb central to their spiritual identity.

The Rastafari Society of Kenya (RSK) has renewed its push for the decriminalization of "ganja,"arguing that the substance’s prohibition infringes on their constitutional rights, spiritual practices, and minority protections under Article 56 of the Constitution.

Appearing before Justice Bahati Mwamuye of the Milimani High Court, lawyers, community representatives, and Rastafari faithful addressed the media, decrying what they described as decades of stigmatization, victimization, and criminalization of their culture.

The petitioners,including the Rastafari Society of Kenya, Mwendwa Wambua (alias Ras Prophet), the Attorney General as the 1st respondent, and the Kenya Law Reform Commission as the 2nd respondent—accuse the State of perpetuating outdated and discriminatory laws.

Court documents indicate that the petitioners contend sections of narcotics legislation enacted in 1994—long before the 2010 constitutional dispensation—continue to “frustrate, stigmatize, and victimize” members of the Rastafari faith. They argue that these provisions infringe on the free enjoyment of freedom of worship, association, and privacy, contrary to Articles 32, 36, and 31 of the Constitution.

Citing Genesis 1:29 as the spiritual foundation for the sanctity of ganja, the petitioners assert that Rastafari doctrine “irrefutably supports decriminalization,” portraying the herb as non-addictive, benevolent, and healing. They argue that its sacramental use fosters peace, meditation, and communal upliftment, contrary to narratives framing it as harmful.

Rastafarian association together with counsel Shadrack wamboi of the Sheria Mtaani during the press briefing on the November 17,2025./Photo/Reporter

Shadrack Wamboi of Sheria Mtaani, representing the petitioners, said the case seeks to liberate Rastafari practitioners who have suffered prolonged discrimination for their beliefs and sacramental cannabis use.

“We appeared before Justice Bahati Mwamuye seeking an audience so that Rasta can be freed from the shackles of stigmatization and victimization for their beliefs and practices,” Wamboi said.

Wamboi noted that the Rastafari Society of Kenya, registered in 2017, has continuously championed the rights of Rastafarians, yet “outdated laws” continue to criminalize their practices.

“For long, Rasta has been victimized for using marijuana,whether you call it cannabis sativa, kivela, kushum peng’, or dome,” he added. “These laws continue to infringe on our freedom of worship and privacy.”

A young Rastafarian leader also highlighted the ongoing discrimination, stating:

“Despite the republic being in place for over a decade, we still face prejudice for practicing Rastafari and using ganja for spiritual purposes. We urge the court to allow its use in tabernacles, shrines, and private spaces, as the herb does not impair responsible living.”

He added, “There is a lot of misinformation. Cannabis does not make us irresponsible. Some of us are government employees; some run law firms. We are focused, law-abiding people.”

The court confirmed that the matter will proceed on January 14 and 15, 2026, following the adjournment of today’s session.

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