MBEERE North Farmers Oppose Bill to Delete Muguka from Crop Act

The controversial bill, sponsored by Kilifi North MP Owen Baya, proposes to delete Muguka from the Crops Act, effectively ending its recognition as a legal crop in Kenya. The farmers led by Leonard Muthende a local farmer and politician in Mbeere North are questioning the timing and motive behind the bill, especially coming at a time when Mbeere North is without a Member of Parliament after Geoffrey Ruku was appointed to the Cabinet.

Muthende termed the bill suspicious and ill-intentioned, arguing that instead of introducing laws that would hurt the Muguka industry, the Kilifi legislator should have pushed for policies that benefit growers, such as compensation or royalties for the Mbeere community whose economy largely depends on Muguka.

“Muguka farming has made life bearable in the arid, dry, thirsty and marginalized Mbeere. It is the lifeline of the Mbeere people .The status quo must not be destabilized because of prejudices that are not anchored in science” he said.

Muthende praised former MP Geoffrey Ruku for championing the recognition of Muguka, which led to its inclusion under the Miraa (Regulations) 2023—recognizing it as part of scheduled crops under the Crops Act. He called on President William Ruto to intervene and protect Muguka farmers, saying the community has faith in his leadership.

Kathuri Nganjire, another farmer, echoed Muthende’s sentiments, stating that Muguka farming has not caused any harm as alleged in some quarters. He accused opponents of the crop of trying to destabilize families that rely on Muguka as a source of income.

Felista Kanini warned that if Muguka is declassified as a crop, thousands of youth and families who depend on it may be pushed into crime due to loss of livelihood.

Muguka contributes significantly to Embu County’s economy, bringing in about KSh22 billion annually, surpassing earnings from coffee and tea. Farmers deliver up to 36 tonnes daily to the coast, raking in an estimated Sh10.8 million each day. 

President Ruto has already declared that Muguka is legally recognized and any attempts by county governments to ban it are unconstitutional. Still, the proposed bill has stirred anxiety among farmers who fear being pushed to the margins of the economy once again.