An MCA from Mombasa has found validation following the county government’s decision to prohibit the sale of miraa and muguka in proximity to places of worship and educational institutions.
This prohibition, extending to general shops as well, has triggered outcry among users.
In 2018, during the second county assembly session, Fatma, then a nominated MCA representing Kadzandani, tabled a motion to entirely outlaw the sale of miraa and muguka in Mombasa.
However, the motion was thwarted by some MCAs, who were staunch consumers supported by miraa traders.
Had the motion passed and been enforced, Mombasa might have seen a decrease in criminal activities. Kushe remarked,
“We wouldn’t witness various factions either praising or criticizing the governor today.” She added, “Presently, our unemployed youth resort to muguka consumption, leading to heightened aggression and subsequently, resorting to robbery to sustain their addiction.”
Kushe expressed satisfaction with the renewed efforts by MCAs to advance her agenda, indicating a shift in their fear of voter backlash.
Bamburi MCA, Patrick Mbelle, acknowledged the challenge of implementing a complete ban due to miraa’s status as a cash crop. He disclosed plans to introduce legislation aimed at limiting access to these stimulants.
Mbelle outlined proposals to push miraa and muguka vendors away from social amenities and increase the cost of permits for selling these substances.
Presently, the law dictates a minimum distance of 100 meters from schools, places of worship, and other public facilities for their sale. However, Mbelle’s proposed bill suggests extending this distance to 500 meters and including additional facilities like social halls.
Kushe, also serving as the vice chair of the county assembly health committee, pledged support to Mbelle in safeguarding Mombasa residents from the adverse effects of miraa and muguka. She expressed optimism for a more rational debate in the assembly this time around.
Mbelle collaborated with activists, religious leaders, youth representatives, and public health officials to gather perspectives. Public health officials were enlisted to assess the quality and chemical composition of miraa and muguka being consumed locally.
Mbelle stressed the ultimate goal of moving towards a complete ban to protect the youth and school-going children, considering them the most vulnerable and potentially productive segment of society.
He emphasized that the societal losses from muguka outweigh any benefits.
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