Helpless widows now turn to Miraa to feed their children

Kabale Shanu, 78, a widower works in a miraa farm in Gar Qasa neighbourhood, Marsabit County. [Fahmo Mohammed/Standard]

It is 8am and the sun is up, its rays brightening miraa trees on an expansive farm in Gar Qasa, Marsabit County.

A group of women are picking miraa twigs. Most of them are experienced, having done this for decades. They include 78-year-old Kabale Shanu.