Rwandese fashion designer Moses Turahirwa has told a court in Rwanda that Kenya is his major supplier for the cannabis he uses.
While appearing before the Kicukiro Primary Court, the designer, who had formerly worked for Rwanda's President Paul Kagame as his designer, was accused of drug use and trafficking.
According to the court, the designer confessed to drug use but denied accusations of transporting drugs into the country.
The judge alleged that 13 packets of cannabis were seized during Turahirwa’s apprehension on April 14, substantiating the charge of drug transportation.
However, the designer, appearing in court with his lawyer, pleaded guilty to drug use but disputed the prosecutor’s claim regarding the quantity.
“I had less than two grams of cannabis. I did not traffic drugs. I brought a small amount from Kenya for personal use,” he said, breaking down in tears during his defence.
In his defence, the designer's lawyer argued that he was coerced into signing the confession and was struggling with mental health issues.
The lawyer revealed that the designer had been diagnosed with mental health issues by an American doctor and was undergoing therapy.
The prosecution, however, maintained that Turahirwa is not a first-time offender. In December 2024, Nyarugenge Intermediate Court convicted him of drug consumption and document forgery.
The designer alleged that his apprehension was merely a pretext, claiming he was being targeted due to his public stance on social media. Last month, he shared a series of messages criticising Rwandan leaders, including President Kagame, for unjustly imprisoning his father.
“I apologised to the president. I’ve started medical treatment and therapy, and I promise before this court, my family, and God that I will never use drugs again,” Turahirwa asserted.
In Kenya, cannabis is unlawful for both recreational and medical use. Kenya has strict drug laws, and possession, use, or sale of cannabis can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Trafficking cannabis is also unlawful in Kenya and carries even harsher consequences. If found in possession of cannabis for supply rather than personal use, one could face 20 years to life in prison or a hefty fine.
