Why Meru men walk around with pangas

Weapons are becoming a matter of great concern in the Nyambene region [Photo: Kiundu Waweru/ Courtesy]

Cases of Merus hacking each other with machetes and other crude weapons are becoming a matter of great concern, especially in the Nyambene region, which is the main source of miraa. Disputes over land and miraa are usually the main cause of family squabbles, many of which end up violently.

“If someone steals your miraa crop, they are joking with your main source of livelihood. Personally, I would not hesitate to cut off your hands if I find you in my farm. I would not bother the police. And we know how the wheel of justice turns agonizingly slow in Kenya. I would mete out justice myself,” said a farmer.