President Ruto Intervenes to Support Muguka Farmers Amidst County Bans
President William Ruto has stepped up to lend a hand to Muguka farmers in light of recent bans on the transportation and sale of the crop in three counties. This move comes as a relief to the farmers who have faced significant challenges after the governors of Mombasa, Kilifi, and Taita Taveta imposed restrictions on Muguka. The President's intervention represents a significant step in addressing the concerns of these farmers and ensuring their livelihoods are protected.
Meeting with Embu County Leaders
On Monday evening, President Ruto hosted a meeting at State House with key figures from Embu County, including Governor Cecily Mbarire and several lawmakers. During this meeting, the President reiterated his support for the Muguka farmers, confirming that Muguka is a scheduled crop under national agricultural regulations. To further bolster his commitment, Ruto announced an allocation of Ksh500 million towards Muguka farming in the 2024/2025 Financial Year. This significant financial backing underscores the importance of Muguka farming to the local economy and the livelihoods it supports.
Calls for Consultative Meetings
The President has tasked the Ministry of Agriculture with organizing consultative meetings to discuss the implementation of the Miraa/Muguka Regulations 2023. These meetings aim to bring all concerned parties and stakeholders together to reach a consensus on the future of Muguka farming. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, Ruto hopes to address any misunderstandings or concerns and pave the way for a unified approach to regulating the crop.
Scaling Up Muguka Farming
During the meeting, President Ruto emphasized the importance of enhancing various aspects of Muguka farming. He highlighted the need to scale up farming operations, improve aggregation, and implement better grading and pricing mechanisms. Additionally, Ruto stressed the value of packaging and adding value to the crop to ensure that farmers can maximize their earnings and compete effectively in the market. This holistic approach aims to not only safeguard Muguka farming but also to elevate its status as a valuable agricultural commodity.
Support from Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi also voiced his support for the Muguka farmers during the meeting. He confirmed that Muguka is a scheduled crop under national legislation and that any county laws contradicting this designation are null and void. This clarification provides a legal foundation for the protection of Muguka farming and reassures farmers that national legislation supports their activities.
Addressing Health Concerns
The bans on Muguka in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Taita Taveta were largely driven by concerns over the crop's impact on local youth. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir had earlier claimed that the use of Muguka was causing youth to waste away their lives. This sentiment was echoed by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA), which supported the bans. However, the farmers in Embu have argued that Muguka is not a hard drug and does not have the same adverse effects as substances like marijuana or alcohol. They maintain that no consumers have been adversely affected by the crop in the ways suggested by the bans.
The Future of Muguka Farming
The President's intervention and the subsequent allocation of funds represent a significant step towards securing the future of Muguka farming. By addressing the concerns raised by county authorities and providing a clear legal framework for the crop, Ruto is working to ensure that Muguka farming can continue to thrive. The consultative meetings organized by the Ministry of Agriculture will play a crucial role in shaping the regulations that govern Muguka farming, ensuring that they are fair, effective, and supportive of farmers' needs.
Importance of Muguka to Local Economy
Muguka farming is a vital part of the local economy in Embu County and other regions. The crop supports thousands of livelihoods and is deeply ingrained in the agricultural practices of these areas. By recognizing the importance of Muguka and taking steps to protect its farming, the government is acknowledging the significant role that this crop plays in the economic and social fabric of these communities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, President Ruto's timely intervention offers hope and reassurance to Muguka farmers facing the challenges brought about by the recent bans. By emphasizing the crop's scheduled status, allocating substantial funding, and encouraging collaborative regulation, the President is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future for Muguka farming. As the consultative meetings unfold, stakeholders will have the opportunity to shape the regulations in a way that supports farmers while addressing health concerns. By working together, it is possible to find a balanced approach that ensures the continued success of Muguka farming and the well-being of the communities it supports.
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