Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya Urges North Rift Governors to Ban Miraa

The Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) North Rift Chairman, Abubakar Bini, has called on governors in the North Rift region to ban the use and consumption of miraa (khat).

This appeal comes in the wake of similar actions taken by Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir and Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro.

Chairman Bini highlighted the numerous negative impacts of miraa, emphasizing its detrimental health, socio-economic, and environmental consequences. He noted that the stimulant poses a significant burden on minors, families, and county systems.

“As Muslims from the Rift Valley, we support the Mombasa governor and his Kilifi counterpart for banning miraa/khat. This move will save our youths from addiction,” Bini stated.

He further urged the governors of the North Rift to align with this initiative, advocating for a region-wide ban on the substance.

The call for a ban has garnered support from various community leaders. Adikadir, another prominent Muslim leader in the region, echoed Bini’s sentiments, pointing out the severe impact of miraa on the community.

“We support this move since many lives have been lost due to addiction. Banning miraa will safeguard our future generations,” he said.

The recent bans in Mombasa and Kilifi are seen as significant steps towards combating the adverse effects of miraa, and the CIPK hopes that similar measures will be implemented across other counties to protect the health and well-being of the population.