MP Baya pulls back bill to remove Muguka from scheduled crops list

Kilifi North MP Owen Baya has decided to withdraw a controversial bill that aimed to remove Muguka, a mild stimulant from Kenya’s list of scheduled crops.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that after meeting with MP Baya and following consultations with leaders from Embu County, the MP agreed to retract the proposed legislation.

"At the request of elected officials from Embu County, the Deputy President met with Owen Baya, the sponsor of the Private Member’s Bill seeking to exclude Catha edulis (Muguka) from the Crops Act schedule," said DP Kindiki.

"Baya has kindly agreed to retract his legislative proposal."

The bill sought to amend the Crops Act, Cap 318, aiming to distinguish Muguka from Miraa (Khat) by explicitly excluding Muguka from the list of scheduled crops.

Enacted in 2013, the Crops Act governs the certification, regulation, and support of scheduled crops throughout their value chains to uphold industry standards and quality.

Had the amendment passed, it would have removed legal protections and government support for muguka, putting at risk the livelihoods of thousands of farmers, especially in areas like Embu.

The bill would also have enabled county governments to regulate or ban muguka independently, as delisting it would have removed its recognition under national law.

The proposed amendment arose amid escalating tensions between coastal and eastern counties regarding the muguka trade.

Coastal regions like Mombasa and Kilifi have repeatedly pushed for stricter controls or outright bans, citing public health and social issues.

Last year, President William Ruto condemned efforts by some county governors to prohibit muguka and miraa, emphasizing that both crops are recognized under national law and should be treated as such.

Deputy President Kindiki’s recent meeting with MP Baya followed wider consultations with Embu leaders, including Governor Cecily Mbarire and County Assembly Majority Leader Peter Muriithi, focusing on national government support for vital agricultural sectors in the area.

"Our discussions with county officials aim to align development goals and bolster agricultural livelihoods. Embu plays a crucial role in the country’s production chains," the Deputy President said in a statement shared on his official channels.