MPs from pastoralist communities support Muguka ban

Muguka farmers work in a farm in Kiamugaa area, Embu County. [Joseph Muchiri, Standard]

The Pastoralist Parliamentary Group (PPG) has supported the ban on Muguka, urging governors across all counties to do away with the product.

In a statement issued on June 5, the group's chairperson Bashir Abdullahi supported the ongoing motion in parliament, which seeks to stop Muguka use.

Abdullahi highlighted some impacts of the product noting its detrimental effects on youth and school-going children.

"As leaders, we are committed to safeguarding the welfare of our communities, particularly the youth and school-going children, who are disproportionately affected by the adverse effects of this substance. We praise and support the governors of Mombasa and Kilifi for banning Muguka in the coastal cities (sic) and encourage our Governors to ban Muguka in all 15 Counties, too," stated Abdullahi.

The MPs have also stated that the continuous use of the product has a potential effect on mental health which could lead to addiction hence increased school dropouts.

"An alarming trend shows that Muguka and tobacco are consuming young lives. This is not only happening on the coast but across the country. Some school-going children have quit school to indulge in this dangerous drug abuse," he noted.

According to a report by the Mombasa Women Empowerment Rehabilitation Centre, at least 80 per cent of mental health cases reported in Mombasa were attributed to high overconsumption of Muguka.

The report further showed that the product contains amphetamine-like substances that can cause psychotic conditions like those associated with cannabis.

It also contains high levels of stimulants that impair normal body functions, leading to health conditions such as insomnia and mouth ulcers from daily chewing.

Abdullahi further remarks that the use of the substance has left families with financial healthcare burdens from treating Muguka-related illnesses.

He cited part of the report which indicates that women in coastal regions who are now using Muguka have increased by 40 per cent which leads to social disintegration.

"Muguka use has broken marriages, leading to depression. Couples report that excessive Muguka consumption by either the husband or wife affects their relationship," he said.

The controversial debate on the ban of Muguka is still a hot topic in parliament as it draws different opinions from leaders and communities.