Regulating miraa trade can lead to higher economic benefits

President William Ruto samples a bundle of miraa during a function at Igembe Boys in September 2014. [File, Standard]

Miraa is rooted in Kenyan culture and it has sparked a contentious debate within the country. Miraa is native to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian countries. Its leaves contain a stimulant called cathinone or cathine, which can produce effects similar to amphetamines when chewed or consumed.

While it is legal in some countries and regions, it is considered a controlled substance in many others due to its stimulant properties. As a country, we need to delve into a multifaceted debate, weighing the cultural significance, health concerns, and economic impact associated with its use in order to foster a nuanced understanding of the issues at hand. While miraa may have a traditional and cultural significance, cathinone can lead to adverse effects on the body such as insomnia, anxiety, high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and gastrointestinal problems.