Leaders vow to honour Karisa Maitha’s dream of recognising Mnazi as a cash crop

Leaders from Kilifi County and beyond are uniting to see the coconut tree, also known as mnazi, recognised as a cash crop, fulfilling the ambition of the late Karisa Maitha, who championed this cause before his death 20 years ago.

Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule announced that a delegation from Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's office will soon visit the county to conduct research and get public feedback on removing mnazi brew from the list of illegal beverages.

"The late Karisa Maitha envisioned mnazi being appreciated for its full economic potential. The coconut tree provides more than simply brew; it produces a variety of products that, with the correct investment in value addition, could considerably help the country," she said.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi backed the initiative, noting that the government is committed to increasing coconut tree yield.

"We are in the process of enacting a measure in parliament that will assist Mnazi reach its full potential. Recognising it as a cash crop would be an appropriate tribute to Karisa Maitha's legacy," Kingi remarked.

Nominated Senator Miraj Abdilahi remarked, "This is about more than just honouring the past; it is also about securing the future. The coconut tree has been undervalued for far too long."

Mumias East MP Peter Salasya has also indicated support for the bill in the National Assembly. "As a member of the Agriculture Committee, I will make sure that mnazi is recognised as a cash crop. This will give the coastal region the recognition and economic boost it deserves," Salasya said.

He also complimented the late Maitha for his role in bringing the coastal villages together, warning the current administration not to ignore the wisdom of former leaders.

The coconut tree, known as mnazi in Swahili, is an important aspect of coastal Kenyan culture and economics, providing a variety of goods including oil, milk, and fibre in addition to its traditional usage in brewing.