EMBU, Kenya — Tensions are rising in Embu County as Muguka farmers voice strong opposition to a proposed law that seeks to outlaw the crop’s sale and distribution across Kenya, warning of dire economic consequences for the region.
The Anti-Muguka Bill, introduced by Kilifi North MP Owen Baya, aims to delist Muguka from the Crops Act, stripping it of its legal status as a scheduled crop and effectively criminalizing its trade.
But for farmers in Mbeere North, where Muguka is a lifeline, the move is being described as a direct attack on their livelihoods.
“This bill is ill-intentioned and economically reckless,” said Leonard Muthende, a local leader and Muguka advocate. “Muguka farming has made life bearable in this semi-arid and marginalized region. The status quo must not be destabilized because of prejudices that are not anchored in science.”
Muguka farmers have opposed the Anti-Muguka Bill proposed by Kilifi North MP Owen Baya, which seeks to ban the sale of Muguka across the country.#NewsDesk
Farmers are now urging National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah to block the bill from being tabled in Parliament.
They argue that with no current parliamentary representative—following the appointment of former MP Geoffrey Ruku to the Cabinet—their voices risk being excluded from the national conversation.
The proposed ban comes at a time when Muguka has grown into a powerhouse crop for Embu County, generating an estimated KSh22 billion annually—surpassing even coffee and tea.
Farmers supply up to 36 tonnes of the stimulant daily to coastal markets, earning around KSh10.8 million each day.
Critics of the bill say banning the crop would decimate the local economy, calling instead for the government to explore regulatory or harm-reduction policies rather than a blanket prohibition.
Muthende called on lawmakers to consider more constructive solutions. “If Parliament must intervene, let it be to support the growers with structured markets, quality control, and maybe even royalties—not destruction.”
The controversy also raises constitutional questions. President William Ruto previously affirmed that Muguka is legally recognized, warning that any unilateral attempts to ban it would be unconstitutional.
