Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has issued a comprehensive ban on the sale and use of muguka and its products within the county. This decision, formalized in an executive order dated May 22, prohibits any motor vehicles carrying muguka products from entering Mombasa.
Previously, Governor Nassir had banned miraa and muguka businesses near schools while attending an event at Khadija Primary School. He emphasized the need to protect school-going children from exposure to muguka, a low-cost stimulant, asserting that he would not compromise on the safety and well-being of the children in Mombasa.
He stated, “If you must do the muguka business, do it in the right place. We should not expose our children to such stimulants. We want them to be involved in education and digital literacy programmes.”
The new order mandates the immediate closure of all retail and wholesale outlets selling or distributing muguka products. Nassir instructed county departments to enforce the ban without exception, stressing the health risks associated with muguka consumption. In consultation with the National Authority for the Campaign for Drug Abuse (Nacada), Nassir highlighted that scientific studies have shown muguka use leads to mental health issues, social and economic problems, and environmental damage. He added that these negative impacts outweigh any commercial interests.
Nassir’s decision is supported by some members of the county assembly, who have advocated for banning the sale of muguka near places of worship and schools. Similarly, Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro has banned muguka in his county, citing concerns over its impact on children. During public forums in Malindi, Mung’aro expressed distress over witnessing children as young as 10 consuming muguka, labeling it a significant threat to the younger generation.
