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John Mututho, the former Chair of the National Council Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA), has recently voiced his opinion on the prohibition of muguka in Mombasa and Kilifi Counties.
As an advocate for combating substances that impair judgment, Mututho highlights muguka and miraa as particularly challenging substances, based on his experience at a rehabilitation center.
Mututho expresses concern over the increasing use of these substances, citing the high levels of cathinone and cathine present in muguka and miraa, which scientific research indicates can disrupt normal bodily functions.
He emphasizes the addictive nature of these substances, noting their impact on the brain’s reward center and physiological effects such as sperm leakage, insomnia, high blood pressure, and dental decay.
Despite these similarities, Mututho points out a key difference between muguka and miraa: the concentration of cathines and cathinone, which is higher in muguka due to the method of consumption involving chewing the leaves.
This potency presents a significant challenge in treating addiction to both substances, with only a small percentage of patients successfully treated compared to those addicted to heroin.
Mututho advocates for promoting alternative crops to muguka and miraa, such as rosemary, to safeguard the health of users while supporting the livelihoods of farmers and traders.
He emphasizes the economic potential of diversifying agriculture, envisioning a future where farmers thrive without contributing to the proliferation of harmful substances.
