The governors of Mombasa and Embu have reached a consensus on the urgent need to regulate the sale and consumption of muguka to protect children from its harmful effects. Mombasa has proposed several measures, including raising cess charges on muguka trucks and restricting where traders can sell the product. In response, Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire led a delegation to engage Mombasa leaders, resulting in an agreement to establish a committee led by Mombasa’s government to address concerns regarding the sale and consumption of muguka.
Governor Abdulswamad Nassir emphasized that muguka poses a serious threat, causing harm to young people and leading to a surge in patients with psychotic symptoms in rehabilitation centers. His administration is working to establish two rehabilitation centers to address this issue. Nassir clarified that the proposed regulations aim to protect children and are not intended to hinder regional economies or traders.
Authorities issued a warning to courier and bus operators without licenses to transport muguka and miraa, threatening stern action against violators. Traders have been given a ten-day notice to relocate at least 100 meters away from schools, places of worship, and other educational institutions.
Nassir announced that all muguka traders will be licensed to prevent unethical sales to children, with full enforcement following the expiration of the notice. Mapping efforts are underway to identify muguka sellers near educational facilities across all sub-counties, such as the 28 educational institutions near muguka sellers in Mvita.
“Teachers are also complaining about the little pocket money that a parent decides to give to their children. The children make arrangements, add up the money to purchase a packet of muguka.”
Chewing of muguka triggers the use of other drugs and substances, he added. The county is also mulling over a law to impose times for its sale.
The governor said while he has been warned of committing ‘political suicide’, he would rather face backlash for protecting the children of Mombasa.
Governor Mbarire agreed that muguka, predominantly grown in Embu, is a stimulant. It is also scheduled as a cash crop in the regulations of the country.
The meeting, she said, delved into how the two counties can resolve the raised issues.
“We fully support the need to regulate muguka trade in Mombasa. We are also cognisant of the need which is a moral need to protect our children from the consumption of this product because it is a stimulant just like alcohol is,” she said.
“We must ensure it is only consumed by adults, who can be able to make reasonable and objective decisions,” she added.
Mbarire urged muguka traders to follow the rules and regulations to have a good business environment.
“Do not resist the movements, accept that we must protect the children,” she said.
The governor encouraged traders to work closely with the county government of Mombasa for their business to thrive.
She implored Mombasa MCAs, who are on recess, to reconsider reducing charges on muguka trucks from the proposed Sh80,000 to Sh60,000.
