Arise Media 
The future of muguka (khat) farmers particularly in Embu and Kirinyaga counties has been thrown into uncertainty following a sudden ban on the trade imposed by the Mombasa County government.
The prohibition, announced through an executive order published on May 22, 2024, aims to curb the consumption and distribution of the stimulant within the coastal region, but has left thousands of farmers and traders in a state of turmoil.
The ban, effective immediately, was justified by county officials as a necessary measure to address public health concerns and social issues associated with its consumption.
Through executive order, no. 1 of 2024, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir said there will be a total prohibition on the entry, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of Muguka and its products within Mombasa County.
The governor ordered all outlets, whether retail or wholesale, selling or distributing Muguka within the County to be closed immediately.
“No motor vehicles transporting Muguka shall be allowed entry into Mombasa County. The County departments are directed to enforce this order without exception,” he said.
The timing of the ban has raised eyebrows, coming just days after Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire visited Mombasa to discuss issues related to Muguka with local leaders.
According to Mbarire, the discussions focused on the social and economic matters concerning Muguka trade.
“Muguka farming remains a vital socio-economic pursuit in our county, with many Embu residents relying on it for their livelihoods. The relationship between our markets and customers is of utmost importance, and we are committed to addressing any conflicts that may arise between our traders and customers,” she said.
Mbarire said the meeting reached agreements to support the implementation of Miraa regulations aimed at safeguarding underage individuals from consuming Miraa, ensuring traders comply with these regulations prohibiting the sale of Miraa near educational institutions and religious places, establishing specific timing for Muguka sale, and licensing traders.
The governor has not yet issued any statement after the Mombasa Governor released the banning executive order.
Mombasa County is one of the major Muguka markets in the country.
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