The Dynamics of Intoxicant/Drug Consumption in Contemporary Uganda: A Case Study of Urban Kampala

Abstract

This article discusses the dynamics of taking intoxicants in modern Uganda. Being a developing country, Uganda is facing several challenges that range from globalization, cultural changes coupled with the modern forces of science and technology and influence from the developed world. One of such challenges is the consumption of intoxicants.  While intoxicants are illegal, nevertheless, in most cases arrested drug users are not punished accordingly. This creates a contradiction. The aim of the study was to indentify the commonest intoxicants taken in Uganda; factors leading to intoxication; negative and positive impacts of intoxicants on the health, social and the economy of the people involved in taking it. The study involved young people from Kampala urban areas. A descriptive survey was employed during data collection. Interviews, semi-structured and close ended questionnaires were used. Since the drug abusers are hunted by the law enforcers, the snow balling technique was adopted during field research. The study indicates that the commonest abused drugs are; alcohol, Mira, cannabis, caffeine and nicotine. This research has discussed the first three in details. The commonest drug abusers are; mainly the youth, street children, musicians and students; the employed and the unemployed. Finally, the research has established that intoxicants have advantages and disadvantages.