Defense Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale recently underscored the urgent need to combat the prevalence of muguka, drawing parallels with the fight against alcohol. Speaking in Eastleigh, Nairobi, on Sunday, June 2, CS Duale emphasized the detrimental impact of muguka on the youth and expressed support for counties that have instituted bans on the substance.
Highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to tackling drug abuse nationwide, Duale urged against selective enforcement. He asserted, “We must not be selective, if we are fighting alcohol we are fighting Muguka,” while inaugurating the Humanity Growth and Development Agency (HGDA) Waqf Tower 2 in Eastleigh Section 3.
Duale committed to convene discussions with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to address the harmful effects of muguka in specific regions and communities, particularly in Northeastern Kenya.
Already, Mombasa and Kilifi counties have implemented bans on the sale, distribution, and usage of muguka, with Kwale and Taveta imposing stringent regulations on the substance. Additionally, Muslim clerics are advocating for Northern Kenya counties to follow suit and prohibit both muguka and miraa.
Garissa SUPKEM Chairman Abdullahi Salat emphasized the visible impact of muguka abuse in the region, citing mental health issues and the strain on resources. Similarly, Mandera Governor Adan Khalif signaled intentions to enforce a ban, declaring, “We must say no to Muguka, enough is enough!”
However, the debate over support for the ban continues, with stakeholders such as muguka farmers, transporters, and users expressing concerns. Embu County has even taken legal action, seeking to overturn the ban through court proceedings.
