Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir and his Embu counterpart Cecily Mbarire signed an agreement to regulate the sale and use of miraa also known as muguka.
Speaking on May 15, Nassir banned the sale of miraa near schools, mosques, and churches to prevent the sale of the product to minors.
He directed officers from Mombasa County government, and the county assembly to issue vacation notice to miraa sellers operating within 100 metres from the mapped areas.
“We have mapped all the schools, mosques, churches, and Sunday schools. Within one hundred meters of these locations, we will have representatives from Embu, Meru, and Mombasa to ensure impartiality. They will be responsible for issuing the vacation notices,” Nassir said.
Additionally, the governor explained that the shop owners should either close down or switch to selling other products that minors can consume.
“They should be told to close their shops. If they don’t want to close their shops, let them operate but only sell goods like bread, sugar, salt, and milk. If they decide to sell muguka and miraa, it must be in a location authorized by the county government,” he added.
“We will restore order to those trading in Miraa/Muguka. We will no longer allow our children to be exposed to the risk of harm. Stern action commences within 7 days. Be advised and comply with the law.”
Economic Importance
Governor Mbarire outlined the importance of miraa to Embu residents and the country’s economy.
She said her government will address conflicts between the miraa sellers and the customers to ensure Embu resident relying on the product remain in business.
“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.
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Mbarire Supports Miraa Regulation
However, the governor supported Nassir’s plan to regulate the muguka trade in the Coastal County.
Mbarire said she recognizes the moral need to protect children from the consumption of miraa just like other drugs, further explaining that it is a stimulant just like alcohol and must only be consumed by adults who can make reasonable and objective decisions.
“To the people of Mombasa we have come in peace, we have come for a trade discussion, a conversation and dialogue,” Mbarire said.
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“We have come meaning well and very committed to ensuring the children of Mombasa just like those of Embu are protected because the children’s right is very clear, we all must follow it and protect the future of counties and our nation.”
Nassir revealed that the two counties will create a team that will develop guidelines to regulate the trade of miraa in Mombasa.
“We have resolved to form a team to develop tough regulations to guide traders on the sale of miraa/muguka. We remain firm that we will safeguard our children from harm,” Nassir said.
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