Mombasa County Governor Abdulswamad Nassir Pushes to Ban Muguka in the Coast Region
Mombasa County Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir's decision to ban the sale and distribution of muguka within the coastal region has garnered both support and controversy.
Muguka, also known as khat, is a leafy plant native to East Africa that contains stimulant properties. It is commonly chewed for its mild euphoric effects. However, its widespread use has raised concerns about mental health issues, addiction, and social implications. Governor Nassir's ban reflects his commitment to addressing these challenges head-on. During an interview with Spice FM, Nassir also explained his rationale for avoiding social media platforms, a decision that aligns with his leadership philosophy.
By refraining from using platforms like WhatsApp, he aims to remain focused on service delivery and avoid emotional influences. Nassir believes that leaders must make decisions based on results rather than emotions. The ban on the popular mild stimulant follows a similar logic. The stimulant's easy availability in Mombasa has led to cases of mental health problems, including among school-going children. The Governor notes that some traders even violated laws by selling muguka to minors.
While acknowledging the political risk associated with banning muguka, Governor Nassir remains steadfast in his commitment to public health. Nassir enjoys broad support despite some describing the ban as a unilateral decision. The Mombasa County Assembly collectively endorses the ban, and most Members of Parliament stand behind him. Mombasa is not alone in its efforts to curb muguka use. Coastal counties like Taita Taveta and Kilifi have also banned the stimulant, while Kwale has increased levies on muguka products.
These coordinated actions demonstrate a regional commitment to addressing substance abuse and its consequences. As the debate surrounding the muguka ban continues, its impact on the region's economy and political landscape remains to be seen.
Comments (9)
It is sad when President Ruto decided to lift the ban. Sad. I stand with Mombasa Governor. Muguka has messed everyone and will continue to damage the lives of many Kenyans.
Khat is a drug, just like any other drug! You can now see why in Somalia, they have been killing each other for over five decades, high all the time, insane all the time!!!
YES Katiba voters should explain why Nassir & Co.can contradict Kenyan law which recognizes MIRAA/MUGUKA as a cash crop.But Nassir & Co should first tell Kenyans the reasons behind MUGUKA ban yet wauuaji Joho,Sonko,Punjan NARCOTICS are sold openly along Mombasa streets,bars,hotels,even outside CITY HALL etc.
Comrades
There's nothing wrong in anything in the world. The problem is misuse. Food for instance is good, but Food kills more people than Khat and weed combined.
I agree with you @ Kora Kanini. These drugs same,and in various forms have been with us since our ancestors stood on their two hind feet. Granted more people use the drugs in proportion to the population size,any surge in use should be investigated,and dealt with.We are backing up the wrong tree ,with this knee jack reaction of banning. We should figure out why their is an upswing is consumption.Something else is going on.It might be too much free time on their hands,or too many problems...The drugs are not going away. We just have to figure out how to use less of it- Responsibly.
Ban muguka businesses in coastal region to save the future generations period
Is the ban based on harmful effects supported by scientific evidence or is it politics as usual.
Bad devolution. Local government must have own laws and local police to enforce
Kinywaji chochote kinachotumiwa na binadamu na kubadilisha fikira zake na kuleta tabia za ajabu kipigwe marufuku kila mahali katika nchi ya Kenya.