President William Ruto has issued a firm warning to cartels in the miraa trade, declaring that their influence in producing counties will soon come to an end. He assured farmers that his administration is committed to ensuring they receive maximum returns from the crop.
Speaking in Maua, Meru, Ruto compared the planned crackdown on miraa cartels to the government’s recent efforts in the coffee sector, where reforms have led to improved earnings for farmers.
“We have made a declaration here in Maua. Cartels that have been undermining the miraa trade must leave because we want this sector to thrive like other agricultural industries,” he said.
The Head of State outlined key government initiatives aimed at supporting miraa farmers, including officially classifying miraa as a cash crop, establishing gazetted pricing, and securing international markets. He revealed that discussions had already taken place with leaders from Somaliland and Jubaland to enhance export opportunities for Kenyan miraa.
“The same way we are supporting tea, coffee, and sugarcane farmers by seeking better markets, we are also working to ensure miraa farmers get fair prices. That is why we have introduced gazetted rates,” he stated.
Ruto, who was on his second day of a tour in the Mt. Kenya region, reaffirmed his strong ties with local residents. He emphasized that his relationship with the people of the region, which spans over two decades, remains intact and will not be broken.
“My friendship with the people of this region is unshakable, and I will not allow anyone to destroy it,” he said.
He assured the residents that their interests, like those of other regions, remain a priority in his administration and that all promises made to them will be fulfilled.
The President was accompanied by his deputy, Kithure Kindiki, as well as several Cabinet Secretaries and elected leaders.
