Government allocates Sh1B to revive miraa sector

President Uhuru Kenyatta has today (Friday) announced a budgetary allocation of Sh1 billion to cushion Miraa growers from the challenges brought about by ban of Miraa in the European markets two years ago.

Speaking when he signed into law a Bill that will categorize Miraa as a cash crop, President Kenyatta intimated that he instructed the Cabinet that discussed government budgetary priorities in Naivasha last week to include the funds to support Miraa in the next financial year.

The Mediated Version of the Miscellaneous Amendment Bill No 2 makes minor amendments to the Crops Act to recognize Miraa as a cash crop.

The Act obligates the National Government to establish mechanisms for promotion, production, distribution and marketing of Miraa as a cash crop.

Also present during the assent that gives legal backing for farmers and traders to grow, harvest and sell Miraa produce in the country without any hindrances was Deputy President William Ruto together with the Meru political leadership at State House, Nairobi.

The President regretted the tribulations that the farmers were undergoing since the ban, and assured that the government would do everything possible to ensure farmers reaped maximum benefits from their produce.

“This historical law we have signed today giving Miraa the legal backing as a cash crop will also give the crop the foundation of recognition in formal government structures,” he added.

President Kenyatta also announced formation of a new task force to look into the ills afflicting the Miraa sub-sector and make recommendations for implementation by the government.

“We are happy with your government for addressing the development concerns of the Meru people in terms of infrastructure development, construction of dams and issuance of title deeds,” the leaders told the president.