University develops Miraa juice to boost farmers' earnings

From right; National Research Fund boss Prof Ratemo Michieka, Meru University of Science and Technology VC Prof Romanus Odhiambo and others at the institution's third international conference at main campus of Nchiru in Meru, on Thursday, June 27, 2024

Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) has announced a breakthrough in its extensive research to develop various value-added products from the miraa.

MUST has developed miraa juice, wine, an energy drink, and chewing gum and is establishing a Sh30 million processor for these products.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Romanus Odhiambo, addressed the press regarding the upcoming 4th Annual International Conference set for June 25-27.

For the past four years, the university has focused on research, innovation, and the commercialisation of products that positively impact the community.

He said MUST was keen to improve the socio-economic capacity of local communities at their various facilities - Nchiru (main campus), Marimba, Mariene and Laare.

Professor Odhiambo said that one role of the university is to find solutions to the challenges affecting the community through research.

"Miraa is a big deal in Meru County, especially when you move towards Igembe and all the rest," Odhiambo said, adding that miraa was a multi-billion sub-sector.

"We have come up with miraa juice, which is very nice. You take a small tot, and one is ok. We discourage taking a whole bottle," he said, adding that it has the same effects as the miraa twigs when chewed.

He added, "The university decided to concentrate most of its efforts on researching Miraa. I am happy to report that we have had a lot of successful innovative products coming out of our research. One is the miraa bag, like a tea bag, which you put in your water and milk," he said.

The varsity acquired six acres at Laare where it wants to establish the Miraa Research Institute through support from the Ministry of Agriculture.

Odhiambo said the university has developed several value-added products from camel milk that have medical benefits, particularly for individuals suffering from conditions like diabetes.

He said the varsity was keen to contribute to the government's plan to achieve food security and safety.

For years, debate has raged about the miraa crop, with people describing it as a drug unsuitable for human consumption while others advocate for its medicinal benefits.

Mombasa, Kwale, Tana River, and Kilifi counties have enacted laws to limit the sale of stimulant crop leaves.

The United Kingdom and other European countries banned it, affecting the livelihood of the thousands of farmers who depend on the miraa and mogoka trade.