Muguka
The Governors of Mombasa and Embu have agreed on the urgent need to regulate the sale and consumption of muguka a variant of khat, to prevent children from its use.
A move from Mombasa to introduce a raft of measures, including a proposed twofold increase on cess charges on muguka trucks, made Embu Governor, Cecily Mbarire, lead a delegation of ten Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) from muguka growing wards, traders and cooperative leaders, to engage with Mombasa leaders, Wednesday.
The duo agreed to constitute a committee headed by the County Government of Mombasa, two representatives of muguka traders, and two Mombasa MCAs to iron out contentious issues on muguka trade and consumption. Nassir noted that muguka is a ticking time bomb that has caused harm to young people and rehabilitation centres in the coastal city have recorded a surge of patients, exhibiting psychotic symptoms.
The proposed regulations, he said, do not target to stifle the economies of certain regions or traders, but to protect children. Courier and buses were put on notice over the concealment of muguka and miraa consignment, due to lack of a license to transport the products. A stern action will be taken against owners.
A ten-day notice will be issued to muguka and miraa traders to move 100 meters from institutions of learning, places of worship, madrassas and Sunday schools. “All traders of muguka, will be licensed in a bid to nab unethical traders, selling to children,” said Governor Nassir, adding after the expiry of the notice the enforcement will go at full throttle.
The devolved government mull a law to impose times for the sale of muguka. Governor Nassir stated mapping is ongoing in all institutions of learning in the six Sub-counties and Mvita Sub-county for instance there are muguka sellers near 28 educational facilities.
“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,” he said, adding, that chewing of muguka triggers the use of other drugs and substances.
Nassir Administration is in the process of establishing two rehabilitation centres. “This is a challenge that we need to face head-on,” he said. The Governor noted that he has been warned of committing a political suicide, but he would rather face political backlash, as long as he is protecting the children of Mombasa.
Admittedly, Embu Governor said muguka predominantly grown in Embu, is a stimulant and a scheduled cash crop in the regulations of the country. The meeting, she said, delved into how the two counties can coordinate to resolve issues surrounding the consumption of muguka in Mombasa.
“We fully support the need to regulate muguka trade in Mombasa. We are also cognizant 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,” said Governor Mbarire.
“We must ensure it is only consumed by adults, who can be able to make reasonable and objective decisions,” she added. Governor Mbarire, reiterated her commitment to ensure the children of Mombasa, are protected to secure their future ditto Embu.
She 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. For muguka business to thrive, Governor Mbarire, encouraged traders to work closely with the County Government of Mombasa.
She implored Mombasa MCAs, who are on recess to reconsider the reduction of charges on muguka trucks from the proposed Sh80, 000 to Sh60,000.