Arise Media 
BY RITA MUTHONI
Multiple business sectors that have thrived around Muguka business in Embu county are set to face economic upheaval following recent bans on Muguka trade in Coastal counties.
The recent ban, announced on Friday by the Kilifi County Government, has sparked a wave of concern among Muguka farmers, Brokers, Food vendors, Bodaboda riders, and shopkeepers amongst other businesses plying around Shakahola Market.
Initially, Mombasa County had issued an executive order dated 22nd of May, prohibiting the entry, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of Muguka and its products within Mombasa.
Shakahola market located in Embu town is the County’s main Muguka site.
The market transforms into a hive of activities in the late evening hours, bringing into the limelight the bustling trade that sustains many livelihoods in the locality.
Kelvin Mutwiri, a boda boda rider, noted that his income relies heavily on Muguka deliveries.
Mutwiri said his bodaboda business enables him to pay rent and meet other expenses.
“The demand for Muguka transportation is high. I make several trips a day, earning some good profits. Muguka business has helped to improve my lifestyle,” he noted.
Florence Mwende, who runs a small eatery around Shakahola Market, expressed fears of her business collapsing due to the Muguka trade ban.
Mwende said her chapati-selling business had just started to recover from the losses she incurred after the relocation of Muguka traders from Kamuketha Market to the current site.
“Most of my customers are Muguka traders. If the trade is banned, I don’t know how to sustain my business,” Mwende lamented.
“Muguka traders often eat here. My sales have since doubled, allowing me to expand my menu and improve my family’s living standards,” she added.
Evans Gitonga, a Muguka broker, argued against the ban, citing the numerous job opportunities it provides for youths, helping reduce crime rates.
” I want to urge the Mombasa Governor and his Kilifi counterpart to allow Muguka business to continue in those areas so that our businesses are not interrupted. Muguka trade is more than just a business. It is a lifeline for many of us. We are grateful for the opportunities it has brought, “he said.
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