The Ministry of Agriculture, through the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), has confirmed that it has secured Djibouti as a new export destination for Miraa.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 23, the AFA Director General Bruno Linyuru confirmed the decision, attributing it to the laborious efforts and engagement the two nations have had since last year.
According to the authority, the new export market will not only play a significant role in the country's economic transformation but also strengthen the social and diplomatic relations between the two countries.
"AFA wishes to notify the public and stakeholders of new export opportunities for Kenyan Miraa (Khat) of Djibouti, following successful trade engagements between the two nations," Linyuru said.
"As a result of a trade Mission to Djibouti in October 2024, and a reciprocal visit by a Djibouti delegation in November 2024, Djibouti has opened its market for Kenyan Miraa, subject to regulatory compliance," he added.
Exporters interested in exploring the new market have been encouraged to ensure that they adhere to Djibouti's import regulations, which include having the necessary product standards as well as obtaining the necessary permits from relevant authorities.
"This new development marks a major milestone in diversifying Kenya's miraa export markets. The traders are encouraged to take advantage of this new commercial opportunity and link up with buyers in Djibouti for business engagement," Linyiru said.
Miraa was declared a scheduled crop in November 2016 through an amendment to the Crops Act of 2013, which enables the government to oversee the regulation of the crop as well as promote its sale.
The product remains a key source of livelihood in several parts of the country, especially in Meru, Tharaka, Nithi, and Embu. Due to the high market demand, the cultivation of the crop has spread its roots to other counties such as Marsabit, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Murang’a, Machakos, Makueni, Laikipia, and West Pokot.
In a press statement earlier this year, on Saturday, February 15, the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Mutahi Kagwe, said that the government had increased the prices of Miraa.
For Grade one, the price had been increased from Ksh700 to Ksh1,300, while for Grade two, the price was increased from Ksh350 to 700, and the cost of Alele miraa was doubled from Ksh500 to Ksh1,000.
During his tour in Meru on April 2, President William Ruto said that the government had kickstarted a crackdown targeting Miraa cartels who have often denied farmers to enjoy premium profits from the products.
