Mixed reactions as a village in Mandera bans the sale and consumption of miraa

Khalija village in Mandera North constituency has banned the use and sale of khat and miraa. (Courtesy)

By Kevin Kyalo

MANDERA—Khalija village in Mandera North constituency has banned the use and sale of khat or miraa.

The decision to interdict the stimulant has been arrived at by elders, religious leaders, youth and women group after weeks of lobbying where they have sort to fight the miraa business at all cost.

The elders have resolved to provide khat business owners with extra financial support, a move to enable them venture in other businesses. All those with miraa debts will also be compensated.

They have passed a rule that no miraa chewer will be allowed to marry from the area.

“It has had a negative impact on the people of Khalija especially those who have neglected their responsibilities due to their extravagant spending on miraa,” Hussein Abdi a resident of Khalija noted.

“School going children have also developed a love for the stimulant which has greatly impacted on their performance both in school and at home,” added Mr Abdi.

Married women have suffered most as many men who chew khat and miraa have been accused of failing to provide for their families.

Anti khat activist have applauded the decision by Khalija and have urged the Somali community which is the biggest miraa consumer to follow in the footsteps of the village.

“We would like people from Mandera and the entire Northern Kenya to emulate Khalija and stop venturing in the miraa business,” said Bashow Ismaulre a Anti khat activist.

The decision has not augured well with miraa users who have termed it as a violation of their rights.