By Diana Wenwa
Governors from the Jumuiya ya Kaunti za Pwani, representing Mombasa, Kilifi, Taita Taveta, Kwale, and Lamu counties, have unanimously decided to decline an invitation to meet with the Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture, Mithika Linturi, regarding the contentious Muguka issue.
In a detailed letter addressed to the Cabinet Secretary, the Governors emphasized that Muguka is not merely an agricultural matter but a significant concern affecting the health, well-being, and security of their populations. They called for a more serious and comprehensive approach to the issue.
The letter, signed by the Governors of the five counties, referenced a previous communication from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development about a consultative forum on the Miraa/Muguka industry scheduled for June 6, 2024. The Governors expressed their regret in declining the invitation, citing several reasons.
The Governors highlighted that the Cabinet Secretary’s public statements favoured the socio-economic interests of producing counties, compromising the Ministry’s ability to act as an impartial mediator.
They also noted that the ban on Muguka in the coastal region has sparked nationwide debate, involving various branches of government.
The Governors argued that the matter requires a broader, more inclusive discussion led by the Head of State.
They proposed that the National Authority for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA), the Ministry of Health, security agencies, and civil society should be involved in the consultations to reflect the multifaceted nature of the issue.
The letter emphasized that Muguka consumption adversely affects health, security, and the economy in their counties.
The Governors cited NACADA’s classification of Muguka’s active ingredients, Cathine and Cathinone, as psychotropic substances prohibited under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act of 1994. These substances are also banned in many countries globally.
The Governors pointed to data from local rehabilitation centres and hospitals indicating a troubling link between Muguka abuse and mental health issues. Studies have shown a significant proportion of patients with mental health conditions have been abusing Muguka, raising alarms about its accessibility, particularly to minors due to its low cost and short harvest time.
The Governors concluded their letter with a request for a consultative meeting involving the Head of State and key Cabinet Secretaries, including those from the Ministries of Health and Internal Security. They reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the interests and well-being of their citizens.