President William Ruto has taken a firm stance against miraa cartels, declaring that their influence in the sector will be eradicated to ensure farmers receive maximum benefits from their produce. Speaking in Maua, Meru County, Ruto likened his efforts to dismantling cartels in the coffee industry and promised to bring similar reforms to the miraa subsector.
“We have made a declaration here in Maua. All cartels ruining the miraa business should leave this country because we want this trade to thrive like other agricultural sectors,” said Ruto. He further issued a warning to those involved, stating, “Mambo yao ni matatu. Either wakome, ama tuwapeleke jela, ama waende ile safari.”
Ruto highlighted several government interventions aimed at boosting miraa farmers’ earnings. Among them is the official classification of miraa as a cash crop, a move that will give it the same recognition and government support as tea, coffee, and sugarcane. Additionally, his administration has set new gazetted prices for miraa to ensure farmers get fair compensation for their produce.
In a bid to expand the market for miraa, Ruto revealed that he has engaged in discussions with the presidents of Somaliland and Jubaland to secure foreign export opportunities. These discussions align with the government’s broader strategy to support agricultural exports, ensuring that farmers get the best possible prices for their crops.
“The same way we are helping tea, coffee, and sugarcane farmers find better markets, we are also supporting miraa farmers. That is why we have gazetted new prices,” Ruto stated.
Ruto’s tour of Mt. Kenya also served as a reaffirmation of his commitment to maintaining strong ties with the region. He emphasized that his long-standing relationship with the people of Mt. Kenya, spanning over two decades, remains unshaken. He vowed to safeguard their interests and fulfill the promises he made during his campaign.
“The friendship I have made with the people of the mountain of over 20 years will continue, and I will not allow anyone to break it,” Ruto affirmed.
Accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, several Cabinet Secretaries, and elected leaders, Ruto reassured miraa farmers of his unwavering support. His pledge to eliminate cartels and secure better prices marks a significant step towards strengthening the sector and improving the livelihoods of those dependent on miraa farming.
