Agriculture CS issues an ultimatum to miraa traders, announces key reforms

Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary, Mutahi Kagwe, has issued a two week ultimatum to all miraa traders and exporters to comply with the government’s set minimum prices or face delisting.

Speaking during a Farmers’ Day event in Meru, CS Kagwe warned that non-compliant traders will be required to reapply for licenses and clearly state the prices they intend to pay farmers.

The CS also dismissed air transport costs as an excuse for undercutting farmers, suggesting that the Ministry is considering reopening the Somalia border to facilitate cheaper road transportation of miraa—a border previously closed due to security concerns.

“In a bid to safeguard both farmers and consumers, the ministry has announced an imminent ban on all agricultural chemicals that have already been prohibited in their countries of origin.

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The Pest Control Products Board is finalizing a list of such chemicals, which is expected to be released next week,” said CS Kagwe.

Kagwe also took a swipe at Parliament, urging legislators to refrain from creating more boards or authorities within the agricultural sector, instead calling for laws that prioritize the welfare of farmers.

On the macadamia front, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has been directed to issue a circular advising farmers on approved seedlings.

Kagwe reaffirmed that the ban on the export of raw macadamia nuts remains in place to protect the country’s economic interests.

By John Majau.

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