Miraa farmers are poised for a major boost after the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) secured a new export market in Djibouti.
Djibouti, a major consumer of khat, has the potential to take in up to 20 tonnes of khat valued at Sh56 million daily.
AFA Director general Bruno Linyiru, in a statement, on Wednesday said Djibouti, which has for years relied on Ethiopian Khat had opened its market to Kenyan Miraa.
“This is as a result of a trade mission conducted in October 2024 and a reciprocal visit by a delegation from Djibouti in November last year. Exporters interested in accessing the market must comply with Djibouti’s import regulations including obtaining necessary permits and adhering to product standards,” Linyiru advised.
He said the opening of the Djibouti market ‘marks a major milestone in diversifying Kenya’s export markets’.
“This is a major milestone since it supplements the Somalia market, which farmers have relied on for years,” he stated.
Meru Governor Mutuma M’Ethingia lauded the effort made by AFA and other government agencies saying the new market offers a new lease of life to farmers.
“The loss of markets in Europe dealt a major blow to miraa farmers in Meru. So many livelihoods were lost. The overreliance in Somalia as the only main market also came with many shortcomings.”
“We thank President William Ruto for his commitment in reviving the fortunes of Meru farmers. By engaging the leadership of Djibouti and securing this market, the President has once again demonstrated his unwavering support for the people of Meru and the larger Mt. Kenya East region,” Governor Mutuma said.
He said his administration was working closely with the national government to support value addition and access to more markets for miraa.
Miraa and Muguka Pricing Committee Chairman James Mithika said the developments are a result of years of pursuit by government agencies.
He said exporters will be expected to adhere to miraa regulations as well as the minimum farm gate prices announced by agriculture cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe.
“We will also seek to ensure the local traders and transporters benefit well from this export market. This will create at least seven new jobs for residents’ traders,” Mithika said.
He said the access to the Djibouti market would also open up markets in the middle east.
Nyambene Miraa Trade Association (Nyamita) spokesperson Kimathi Munjuri called for a meeting of stakeholders and government officials to shed light on the new developments.
