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NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Nairobian

Wajir plans to introduce new regulations on miraa, muguka trade

North Eastern

By Mohamed Saman | Jun 02, 2024

**Some of the Muguka traders at Kongowea market in Mombasa County on May 29, 2024, a day after a court lifted the Muguka** **Ban in three Coastal counties.** [Kelvin Karani, Standard]

Wajir County has announced a plan to introduce new rules to regulate the entry, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of Muguka and miraa within its borders.

Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed during Madaraka Day celebrations said the shift in policy aims at ensuring the stimulant plants are not sold near learning institutions or religious establishments.

"The entry, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of Muguka and miraa within the county will be regulated. As such every miraa and muguka seller needs to obtain a license which allows them to sell the product in specific labeled locations," said DG Muhumed.

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The DG emphasised the need for comprehensive regulation to ensure the responsible handling of miraa, a stimulant plant commonly used in the region.

"The entry, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of miraa will be regulated in Wajir County to maintain order and safeguard the wellbeing of our residents," he said.

The new regulations are expected to bring about significant changes in the miraa and muguka trade, impacting local businesses and consumers alike.

The Deputy Governor said the regulations aim to curb any negative social and economic impacts associated with the unregulated trade of miraa.

According to Muhumed, the new regulations require for stimulant plants to be sold at least 500 metres away from learning institutions or churches and mosques.

Food kiosks that will violate the regulations risk action from the county government including forfeiting their operation permits and permanent closure.

The announcement was met with positive reactions from the community, with some praising the government's initiative to introduce order and sanity.

The Deputy Governor assured residents that the county government would engage with all stakeholders to ensure the regulations are fair and beneficial for everyone involved.

Muhumed’s sentiments were echoed by Habaswein MCA Ahmed Diis who said religious and political leaders must take the lead in the fight against drug abuse in the county.