Khat Culture in Addis Ababa

Khat Culture Addis

Khat (Catha edulis; also spelled qat, chat) is arguably the most socially significant psychoactive plant in the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. In Ethiopia it is not a marginal or subcultural substance: khat is mainstream. Ethiopian Airlines serves khat. The Ethiopian economy exports khat to Yemen, Djibouti, and Somali communities worldwide. Farmers in the Harar and Oromia regions depend on khat cultivation for their primary income.

The active compounds in khat are cathinone (chemically related to amphetamine) and cathine. Fresh khat leaves and stems are chewed slowly over one to three hours, releasing these compounds into the bloodstream through the oral mucosa. Effects include increased alertness, mild euphoria, reduced appetite, and increased talkativeness. The experience is often compared to a strong coffee or a mild stimulant rather than an intoxicant in the recreational drug sense.

In Addis Ababa, khat is sold in the Merkato market, in Bole Road shops, and in specialist khat cafes (chat bets) throughout the city. The freshest khat comes in the morning, delivered directly from growing regions. Quality is described by colour (green = fresh = stronger) and origin (Harar khat is considered premium). International visitors who approach khat culture respectfully and with curiosity are generally welcomed — sharing khat is an act of hospitality in Ethiopian social culture.

Khat is legal for use within Ethiopia. Note that khat is controlled or banned in many countries including the United States, UK, and most of Europe. Do not carry khat out of Ethiopia in your luggage.