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Kilifi Governor Mung'aro enforces muguka ban despite Ruto's order

Kilifi inspectorate officers burn confiscated boxes of muguka following the directive from Governor Gideon Mung’aro. (Photo: Kilifi County)

By Farhiya Hussein | Wednesday, May 29, 2024

The governor reported the seizure and destruction of 85 bags of muguka in the operation.

Kilifi County Governor Gideon Mung'aro has remained resolute in enforcing his ban on the sale and use of muguka, despite a directive from President William Ruto advocating for discussions on the issue.

The governor reported the seizure and destruction of 85 bags of muguka in Tuesday's operation.

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"Our recent operations against muguka in Kilifi have been successful following an intense operation. We seized and burned 10 bags,” he said in a statement.

The operation was conducted in Malindi, Adu, Mtwapa, Kilifi North, Mariakani, and Gongoni.

“It is our duty to protect the youth of Kilifi,” he added.

Some of the suspects apprehended using and selling muguka in Kilifi County . (Photo: Kilifi County)

This enforcement comes hours after President Ruto announced a planned meeting involving governors from Mombasa, Kilifi, and Taita-Taveta counties to address concerns over muguka.

Collaborative discussions

Ruto emphasised the need for collaborative discussions, noting that all stakeholders would convene under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.

On Monday, Governor Mung'aro reported that law enforcement officers successfully seized and incinerated more than 10 bags of muguka following intensive operations in various parts of the county.

Kilifi inspectorate officers with confiscated boxes of muguka following the directive from Governor Gideon Mung’aro. (Photo: Kilifi County)

Kilifi's ban on muguka has been part of a broader initiative to curb the use of the stimulant, which has been linked to various social and health issues among the youth.

The governor has consistently highlighted the dangers associated with muguka, stressing that the ban is essential for the well-being of the community.

"Heartfelt thanks to the residents of Kilifi who have continued to cooperate with us by providing important information about those who continue to violate the ban we imposed on the use and importation of this product in Kilifi. I believe that together, we will overcome this menace and save our youth," Mung'aro expressed his gratitude towards the residents of Kilifi for their cooperation and vigilance.

Kilifi inspectorate officers burn confiscated boxes of muguka following the directive from Governor Gideon Mung’aro. (Photo: Kilifi County)

Despite acknowledging the presidential directive on social media, where he retweeted the State House announcement, Mung'aro has continued to implement his strict measures against muguka.

Mung'aro's persistence has garnered support from community members and leaders supporting his decisive actions, seeing them as necessary steps to protect the youth from the adverse effects of muguka.