Nairobi, May 27, 2024 – In a decisive meeting at State House, Nairobi, President William Ruto and Embu County leadership addressed the growing unrest stemming from the recent bans on Muguka by several counties. The government acknowledged the concerns and reaffirmed its support for Muguka cultivation and trade under national legislation.
Muguka, a variety of Miraa, is recognized as a scheduled crop under the Crops Act 2013 and the Miraa Regulations 2023. In his address, President Ruto emphasized that any county laws or orders contradicting national legislation on Muguka are null and void. This declaration underscores the government’s commitment to uphold national standards and protect the rights of Muguka farmers and traders.
The government highlighted that the regulations passed by the National Assembly and Senate, with the concurrence of the Council of Governors, obligate the allocation of funds for various aspects of Muguka cultivation and trade. These regulations mandate the establishment of the Miraa/Mügüka Pricing Committee, with three members already nominated, to ensure fair pricing and market stability.
Furthermore, the President announced the implementation of a Miraa/Mügüka Standard Code of Practice, aimed at regulating the industry and ensuring quality standards. This initiative is expected to bring structure and transparency to the Muguka market, benefiting both producers and consumers.
To address the immediate concerns, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock has been directed to convene a consultative forum. This forum will engage stakeholders to discuss and agree on the implementation of the new regulations, ensuring that the voices of farmers and traders are heard and their interests protected.
In a significant boost to the industry, the government has committed Ksh 500 million in the 2024/25 Financial Year for the value addition of crops, including Muguka. These funds will be allocated to various facets of Muguka farming, including licensing, promotion, regulation, transportation, aggregation, selling, marketing, and export.
The government’s comprehensive approach aims to stabilize the Muguka industry, provide financial support to farmers, and ensure that the crop continues to contribute to the economic wellbeing of communities involved in its cultivation and trade.
President Ruto’s address and the subsequent government measures signal a robust support system for Muguka, ensuring its place as a significant agricultural product in Kenya’s economy.
