The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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President William Ruto has issued a strong warning to miraa cartels in the producing counties, declaring their time is up and pledging to ensure that farmers get maximum benefits from the crop.
Ruto stated that just as he dismantled cartels in the coffee industry and ensured farmers now receive better prices for their crops, he will similarly take strong action against those involved in the miraa sector.
“We have made it clear here in Maua: all cartels undermining the miraa business must leave the country because we want this trade to prosper like other agricultural sectors,” he said.
“We are telling them, mambo yao ni matatu. They must either stop, face imprisonment, or leave the country.”
Speaking in Maua, Meru, Ruto outlined various government measures aimed at increasing miraa farmers’ earnings.
These measures include officially recognizing miraa as a cash crop, establishing new gazetted prices, and exploring new export markets.
He also shared that he has engaged with the presidents of Somaliland and Jubaland to open up foreign markets for miraa.
Ruto emphasized that just as the government is supporting tea, coffee, and sugarcane farmers in accessing better markets and prices, it will also extend similar support to miraa farmers.
“The same way we are helping tea, coffee, and sugarcane farmers find better markets, we are also supporting miraa farmers. That’s why we have set new prices,” he noted.
During his second day of touring Mt. Kenya, Ruto reaffirmed his dedication to maintaining a strong bond with the region’s people.
He emphasized that no one would break the enduring friendship he has built with the region over the past 20 years.
“The friendship I have formed with the people of Mt. Kenya over the past 20 years will continue, and I will not allow anyone to break it,” said Ruto.
He assured the people that he will safeguard their interests, just as he will for other regions, and is committed to fulfilling all the promises he made.
He was accompanied by his deputy, Kithure Kindiki, several Cabinet Secretaries, and elected leaders.
