Kilifi County leaders are threatening to impose a ban on mogoka in the region if the national government persists with its crackdown on palm wine brew, known locally as mnazi.
At a gathering in Jaribuni area of Kauma Sub County, the leaders expressed concern that the crackdown on palm wine, a social stimulant from the Mt. Kenya region, would adversely affect their community, particularly the youth, whom they claim have been negatively impacted by mogoka.
Led by Kilifi County Assembly Majority Leader Ibrahim Abdi Matumbo, the leaders argued that mnazi holds cultural and social significance and should not be labeled as an illicit drug.
Matumbo emphasized the importance of coconut products to their heritage and livelihoods, suggesting that only the governor should have the authority to decide the fate of mnazi, not the national government.
Matumbo further challenged any claims of fatalities directly linked to mnazi consumption, stating that such information should be provided if available.
These statements were made amidst a nationwide crackdown on illicit brews and drugs, spearheaded by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Echoing Matumbo’s sentiments, Sokoke Ward MCA Harrison Thaura Mueni called on National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) to cease their harassment of mnazi traders and users. Mueni threatened to organize street protests if the harassment persists.
Deputy County Commissioner for Kauma Sub County, Pamela Kiama, assured mnazi traders and consumers of government protection but emphasized the necessity for traders to obtain a traditional brew selling license, costing Sh. 2,000, and to operate within specified hours, from 12:00 noon to 10:00 PM.
Meanwhile, Governor Gideon Mung’aro denounced the consumption of mogoka, attributing it to the deterioration of youth livelihoods in Kilifi County.
He advocated for a ban on mogoka, citing its affordability and accessibility to young children, which he argued has led to harmful effects on the youth.
Mung’aro urged the Kilifi County Assembly to enact legislation outlawing mogoka to safeguard the youth population.
