Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir has backed President William Ruto’s nationwide efforts against illicit alcohol and drug abuse. But he pointed out that in the coastal region, muguka stands out as the main issue. The governor made the comments in early January 2026 as he renewed calls for national action on the stimulant.
Nassir said Mombasa faces different challenges from other parts of Kenya. “The problem in Mombasa is not illicit brew; our main problem is muguka,” he stated. He linked high admissions to mental health and rehab centres in the county to muguka use. Over recent months, facilities reported many cases tied to the chewed leaves.
Muguka is a variety of khat, a plant stimulant grown mostly in Embu and Meru counties. People chew it for energy and mild euphoria. It’s legal nationally and classified as a cash crop.
But coastal leaders like Nassir argue it causes addiction, family breakdowns, and health problems. In 2024, Mombasa and nearby counties tried bans, but courts overturned some, saying it needed national handling.
Nassir now urges MPs to change laws. He wants muguka removed from the cash crop list and treated as a harmful drug. “We need decisive national action to protect our families and future generations,” he said.
He also supported Ruto’s recent push for tougher penalties on drug traffickers, including the death penalty in severe cases.
President Ruto has focused heavily on illicit brews, especially second-generation alcohols blamed for deaths and blindness in central Kenya. Operations destroyed distilleries and arrested sellers. The crackdown gained support but faced criticism in some areas for economic impacts.
On the coast, the conversation shifts to muguka. Young people chew it openly in streets and estates. Rehab workers say it leads to dropped school rates and job loss. One centre in Mombasa reported over half its patients in recent years came for muguka-related issues.
Nassir has fought this for years. As governor since 2022, he closed bars near schools and pushed anti-drug programmes. His latest statements align with the president’s overall goal but highlight regional differences.
Farmers in growing areas defend muguka as a livelihood. They say bans hurt thousands of families without alternatives. Past county restrictions led to protests and court battles.
Health experts note khat’s effects include insomnia, anxiety, and long-term mental strain. Kenya’s NACADA agency runs awareness campaigns, but enforcement varies.
Nassir’s call adds to debates in Parliament. Some bills propose regulation, like age limits or sales controls. Others want full bans in certain counties.
For Mombasa residents, the issue hits daily life. Parents worry about youth idleness from chewing. Community groups support stricter measures.
The governor ties it to broader substance abuse. He praises national efforts but says coastal needs match local realities.
As 2026 starts, talks on drug policy continue. Leaders balance health, economy, and culture. Nassir remains vocal on protecting vulnerable groups. His stance shows how regional voices shape national fights.