Muguka Counties Rally Behind New Law to Regulate Cash Crop
Support for Regulation Amid Coastal County Bans
Transporters and operators of muguka bases will soon be required to obtain licenses as leaders from muguka-growing regions endorse a new law aimed at regulating this cash crop. This support comes in response to ongoing bans by coastal counties, which have led to significant contention.
Crops (Miraa) Regulations, 2023
The Crops (Miraa) Regulations, 2023, published on April 5, 2023, aim to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for the miraa subsector in Kenya. According to these regulations, the Cabinet Secretary may impose a levy on miraa produce, set at Sh2 per kilogram for both imported and exported miraa. Additionally, miraa products destined for export will incur a 2% levy based on their Free on Board value, while imported miraa products will face a 4% levy based on customs value.
Leaders’ Support and Advocacy
In a meeting held in Machakos, leaders from muguka and miraa growing areas expressed strong support for the law, highlighting its potential to protect farmers and traders. Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, speaking on behalf of leaders from Embu, Meru, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru counties, emphasized the importance of a fully funded Directorate under the Agriculture and Food Authority Act. This Directorate, known as the Miraa/Muguka, Pyrethrum, and Other Industrial Crops Directorate (MPICD), is tasked with regulating, developing, and promoting these subsectors in Kenya.
Challenges from Coastal Counties
The forum attendees criticized bans and irregular levies imposed on miraa and muguka by coastal counties, describing these actions as economic sabotage. Peter Kithinji, a muguka farmer from Embu County, pointed to a valid court order restraining Mombasa county from enforcing such bans, which has been disregarded.
Economic and Social Impact
Miraa, categorized as a scheduled crop under the Crops Act, 2013, alongside coffee and tea, is a significant economic pillar. It generates over Sh13.1 billion in revenue and supports approximately 1.4 million people. Despite its economic importance, stakeholders are concerned about the recent unilateral actions by some coastal counties, which they argue could set a dangerous precedent if left unchecked.
Call for Government Action
The forum concluded with a call to the Ministry of Interior to enforce the court order issued on May 28, 2024, to protect miraa farmers and traders from harassment and arbitrary arrests. Stakeholders also urged coastal county governments to withdraw illegal charges imposed on miraa, emphasizing the need to uphold the constitution and maintain economic stability.
Coastal Leaders’ Opposition
Notably, lawmakers from the Coast region declined to attend the meeting to discuss the muguka ban. They view muguka as an illicit drug, as defined by the Narcotics, Drugs, and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act No. 4 of 1994, rather than a cash crop under the Crops Act. These leaders have called on the Cabinet Secretary to reclassify miraa and muguka as narcotics and support an amendment bill in Parliament.
Future of Muguka and Miraa Regulation
Despite opposition, leaders from muguka and miraa growing regions remain committed to implementing the Crops (Miraa) Regulations, 2023, believing it will secure the livelihoods of many and ensure the sector’s growth and sustainability. The ongoing debate underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers both the economic benefits and social implications of muguka and miraa cultivation and trade.
This support for the new regulations signals a step towards formalizing and protecting the miraa subsector, amid ongoing challenges and opposition from certain regions. The dialogue and actions taken will play a crucial role in shaping the future of this vital industry in Kenya.
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