By Yasiri J. Kasango
& Asenath Were
A silent epidemic is spreading across Ugandan universities, as the use of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as meth or “ice,” spreads among students seeking academic success and social highs. The highly addictive stimulant poses a serious public health threat in Uganda, with experts warning of devastating consequences if urgent measures are not taken.
Ice, a member of the amphetamine family, is gaining popularity among students due to its ability to increase energy and focus — qualities highly sought after in academic environments where pressure to perform is intense. However, the drug’s destructive impact on physical and mental health vastly outweighs its perceived short-term benefits.
A student at Uganda Christian University, speaking anonymously, described how methamphetamine use is spreading. “It’s commonly used in combination with cannabis or alcohol to amplify the high,” the student said. “Some students take it to stay awake and study for long hours, but they end up addicted and struggling with severe side effects.”
A particularly alarming case involved a student who took crystal meth and spent two days playing PlayStation nonstop. “He blacked out and only woke up the next day in the afternoon,” said another student who witnessed the incident.
Experts warn that the stimulant, which is often sold in the form of small crystalline chunks resembling ice, is far more potent than other forms of methamphetamine. “Crystal meth is extremely addictive. It causes a euphoric high that can quickly lead to dependency, and withdrawal is brutal,” explained Dr. James Okello, a psychiatrist at Butabika National Referral Hospital.
The dangers
According to a website,Medical News Today, crystal meth can be smoked, snorted, or injected. In Uganda, some users crush the drug and mix it with marijuana to intensify its effects, while others dissolve it into drinks at parties. The drug’s addictive nature makes it particularly dangerous, as users quickly develop a dependency, leading to repeated use and severe health complications.
Users report that the drug enhances confidence, alertness, and energy while also reducing appetite. However, these perceived benefits come at a steep price. Common side effects include increased heart rate, excessive sweating, paranoia, aggression, and hallucinations. Prolonged use can lead to irreversible brain damage, stroke, and even death.
Those who inject meth face additional risks, including infections, vein damage, and exposure to diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV/AIDS through shared needles. Snorting the drug, on the other hand, can severely damage the sinuses and cause nosebleeds.
The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act of 2016, criminalises the possession, use, manufacture, and distribution of drugs like methamphetamine. Violators face harsh penalties, including long prison sentences between 10 to 20 years and hefty fines of up to UGx 10 million.
However, gaps in enforcement and corruption within the system have allowed the illegal trade to flourish. UCU police station OC, ASP Kusiima Eseeri, acknowledged the challenges in combating meth use. “These Class A drugs are very difficult to identify. Even private security personnel in hostels and clubs cannot easily detect them,” she said.
The lack of awareness about crystal meth also makes it harder for authorities to curb its spread. Unlike cannabis or alcohol, which are widely recognised and discussed, meth remains relatively new in Uganda, giving traffickers an advantage.
The devastating health impact
Medical professionals warn that the long-term effects of crystal meth use can be catastrophic. Beyond addiction, users risk suffering from psychosis, a condition where individuals lose touch with reality and may experience paranoia, hallucinations, and violent behaviour.
Dr. Okello emphasised that while some brain recovery is possible after quitting meth, the damage can be long-lasting. “The recovery process is difficult and requires intensive rehabilitation. Many students who start using the drug in university struggle with addiction for years,” he said.
In addition to mental health issues, meth use can lead to severe physical complications, including, heart problems, kidney and lung damage, gastrointestinal problems, coma or death.
While the problem is most visible in universities, experts warn that meth use is a reflection of broader societal problems, including unemployment, economic hardship, and lack of awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
“If we do not act now, Uganda could face a crisis similar to what we have seen in countries like South Africa and the United States, where meth addiction has devastated communities,” warned Dr. Okello.
Crystal meth’s impact extends beyond individual users; it strains healthcare systems, increases crime rates, and affects families. As authorities work to combat the supply of meth, universities and communities are encouraged to step up efforts to address the problem by creating a supportive environment and offering students healthier alternatives to cope with academic pressure.
