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Education stakeholders back Mombasa's muguka ban

Participants are pictured at St. Lwanga Primary School in Changamwe, Mombasa County, on June 22, 2024, during an event to mark the Day of the African Child. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein/EV

By Farhiya Hussein | Sunday, June 23, 2024

County Children’s Coordinator Gabriel Kitili emphasised the positive impact of the regulations on students' well-being.

Education stakeholders have joined Mombasa County's fight against muguka, the stimulant that is a variant of miraa (khat), applauding Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir's regulations

The regulations, which included prohibiting sales near schools and doubling cess charges for trucks transporting the crop, aim to curb substance abuse among students and improve academic performance.

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The endorsement came on Saturday during an event at St. Lwanga Primary School in Changamwe to mark the Day of the African Child. This year’s theme, "Education for All Children in Africa: Time is Now," underscored the importance of accessible education for every child.

County Children’s Coordinator Gabriel Kitili emphasised the positive impact of the regulations on students' well-being.

"The Ministry of Health has reported that some school-going children are engaging in muguka use. Governor Nassir’s initiative is a significant step towards protecting our children. A drug-free environment is crucial for their focus and academic success," Kitili stated.

He also highlighted the broader commitment to ensuring all children are educated, regardless of their backgrounds.

Participants are pictured at St. Lwanga Primary School in Changamwe, Mombasa County, on June 22, 2024, during an event to mark the Day of the African Child. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein/EV

Kitili revealed plans for a survey in the 2024–2025 financial year to identify and support out-of-school children, with a focus on those living on the streets.

"We aim to address the issue of street children by finding suitable ways to integrate them into the education system. Many of these children come from other counties, and we need to facilitate their return to their home areas," he added.

Sub-county Education Officer Waithaka Wamburu reiterated the message that education is a fundamental right for every child.

"Education is not a privilege but a right. The Ministry of Education has put in place several support mechanisms, including mentorship programmes and school feeding initiatives, to ensure that all children can attend school," Wamburu noted.

Teacher Patience Mboni expressed gratitude to the International Justice Mission (IJM) for training educators to empower students to speak out against abuse.

"These training programmes are vital. They enable us to help our students raise their voices against any form of abuse and seek justice," Mboni said.

Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi echoed these sentiments, urging teachers to take seriously their role in shaping the future of their students.

"Teachers are the architects of our children's futures. Your dedication and love are critical to their success," Mwinyi said.

He also advised parents to avoid substance abuse, stressing that it undermines their ability to support their children's education and overall well-being.

Deputy County Commissioner Michael Yator reassured the public of ongoing efforts to ensure all children remain in school, highlighting collaboration with various departments.

"We are coordinating with the Department of Education to prevent children from being sent home due to lack of lunch or other necessities. Keeping children in school is our top priority," Yator emphasised.