The Meru County Government in partnership with other stakeholders in Miraa sector have officially rolled out the implementation and enforcement of the Meru County Miraa Promotion Act, 2026, marking a major shift in the regulation of one of the county’s most important cash crops.
The newly introduced law is currently operational across the entire county and seeks to streamline the Miraa sector, protect farmers from exploitation and ensure all players operate within a structured legal framework.
Speaking at the County headquarters during a stakeholders’ meeting attended by Miraa traders, county officials and security agencies, Meru County Investment and Development Corporation (MCIDC) Managing Director Dr Jotham Kirimi said the legislation was developed to bring order to the Miraa industry while safeguarding the interests of legitimate players in the sector.
“The Act was enacted to promote, protect, regulate and license the supply, trade, distribution and transportation of Miraa. It will also safeguard the interests of farmers and legitimate stakeholders within the Miraa value chain,” said Dr Kirimi.
He said the enactment comes amid growing concerns from farmers over market irregularities, exploitation by brokers and the lack of a clear regulatory framework governing the crop’s movement and trade.
County officials say the new law will help address long-standing challenges that have affected producers and traders alike.
The MCIDC boss explained that the Act provides a legal foundation for the promotion of Miraa development, regulation of trade, quality assurance, protection of investments and improvement of marketing systems.
He noted that the county administration is fully aligned with Governor Rev. Mutuma M’Ethingia’s directive on the complete implementation of the law.
Dr Kirimi noted that the governor has made the Miraa sector one of the key areas of focus in efforts aimed at improving farmers’ earnings and strengthening accountability within the industry.
He noted that a properly regulated market will create a more predictable business environment for all stakeholders.
“His Excellency the governor has reaffirmed the County government’s commitment to restoring order, transparency, accountability, fairness and prosperity within the Miraa sector,” said Dr Kirimi.
In addition, he noted that enforcement of the Act will involve collaboration between multiple government departments and security agencies to ensure compliance.
Dr Jotham said that the approach is expected to strengthen oversight of the sector while ensuring those involved in Miraa business activities adhere to the new regulations.
He further stated that the implementation of the law is expected to shield farmers from unfair trading practices that have for years reduced their profits.
“The implementation of the Promotion Act will benefit and protect Miraa farmers from exploitation by brokers and middlemen while promoting fair and transparent marketing systems,” said Dr Jotham
As part of the enforcement measures, all individuals and businesses engaged in Miraa-related activities will be required to register and obtain licenses under the new legal framework.
The requirements apply to aggregators, commercial transporters, exporters and importers operating within the county.
The MCIDC managing Director said the registration process will help improve traceability, accountability and quality control within the Miraa value chain.
He noted that Stakeholders who fail to comply with the new regulations risk facing enforcement action once the implementation phase gains momentum.
Further, The county government and MCIDC made a call to all eligible stakeholders to immediately apply for registration certificates, permits and licenses as provided for under the Act.
Dr Jotham noted that aggregators and aggregation centres will also be required to operate only from approved facilities and maintain proper records of produce received and dispatched.
Meru County Police Commander Moses Mutisya said security agencies will work closely with county enforcement officers to ensure adherence to the new law and maintain order within the industry.
“We as the police will not hesitate to assist enforcement officers from the County Government of Meru to take action on those found breaking the newly passed miraa law,” said Mutisya.
Edited by John Majau
