Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has threatened legal action after Mombasa and Kilifi counties banned the entry, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of muguka.
In a statement, Mbarire pointed out that no Kenyan law differentiates between Miraa and Muguka or prohibits their sale or consumption. She highlighted that the muguka value chain generates approximately Sh22 billion annually for the Embu County government.
“The Muguka value chain is estimated to contribute approximately Sh22 billion per year to the economy of Embu. Muguka farmers and other players who have invested heavily on the value chain therefore stand to lose in terms of revenue and livelihoods,” said Mbarire.
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The Embu Governor said she has directed her legal team to move to court over the ban on Muguka in Kilifi and Mombasa.
“The County Government of Embu and County Assembly of Embu have engaged their legal team to move to court and seek guidance on the matter,” Mbarire added.
On Friday, Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro announced a total ban on the entry, transportation, distribution, sale, and use of muguka and its products within Kilifi County.
He directed all outlets selling or distributing muguka within Kilifi County to cease operations immediately and stop the sale of muguka and its products.
Governor Mung’aro also ordered that vehicles transporting muguka be denied entry into Kilifi County.
On Wednesday, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir banned the sale and use of muguka in Mombasa.
The ODM Governor also ordered that vehicles carrying muguka products be denied entry into the county and that all outlets selling or distributing these products be closed.
