Coastal counties call for Muguka to be declared national health hazard

The counties include Mombasa, Lamu, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, and Taita Taveta. 

The six governors, led by Mombasa County Chief Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir, issued a statement to the media on Monday, shortly after meeting with the Head of State at State House. 

According to Governor Nassir, the six spoke with one voice and "respectfully delivered the message of their people to the Head of State—that they do not want Muguka in their region." 

According to the governors, studies conducted by various institutions such as the Mombasa Women Empowerment Network Mental Health Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre, ReachOut Rehabilitation Centre, Port Reitz Hospital, and the NACADA Rehabilitation Centre have revealed a concerning trend. 

They show that the vast majority of patients (82%) with mental health issues in the coastal region this year abused Muguka. 

According to the governors, this widespread problem has prompted leaders to express serious concerns about its potential impact on public health.

They contend that muguka, a stimulant similar to Miraa but cheaper and quicker to harvest, has become increasingly accessible, especially among minors.

In a joint statement, the governors state that its consumption is linked to serious consequences for reproductive health, posing a significant threat to the well-being and security of coastal communities. 

They stated that the resolutions they presented to the President were the result of a recent consultative meeting on June 16, 2024, chaired by Kilifi Governor Gideon Mun'garo and attended by six coastal county governors, senators, and Coast Parliamentary Group members. 

According to the governors, the meeting resolved to escalate actions against Muguka.

 The meeting decided that all outlets selling or distributing Muguka in Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, and Taita Taveta counties must close down immediately. 

At the same time, it was agreed that motor vehicles transporting Muguka would be prohibited from entering these counties, with strict enforcement by county departments and agencies.