Concern is growing across Kenya over the widespread use of muguka among young people, with many observers saying the habit has become increasingly common in several parts of the country. Mostly consumed by the youth, muguka is typically chewed in leaf form and is widely believed to be highly addictive. Critics warn that its use, alongside miraa, is taking a toll on both public health and social life, and are calling for urgent, evidence-based regulation that balances health concerns with economic realities.

Muguka is a cheaper and more potent form of khat (Catha edulis), mainly grown in Embu, Meru and Tharaka-Nithi counties. Although it comes from the same plant as miraa, the two differ in form and price. Muguka consists only of leaves, while miraa, which is more expensive, includes both stems and leaves.

In 2024, the Mombasa County Governor imposed a ban on muguka, citing its harmful effects. The ban, however, was later lifted by President William Ruto after consultations with leaders from muguka-producing regions at State House. The move triggered anxiety among farmers in the growing areas, who feared major economic losses. High Court Judge Lucy Njuguna issued a temporary order stopping coastal counties from enforcing the ban until July 8, 2024.

Under the Crop Act of 2013 and the Miraa Regulations of 2022, miraa and muguka are recognised as crops. The law requires the government to support their production, licensing, transport, marketing and export. Miraa remains a multi-million-shilling industry, with Somalia as a key export market, alongside strong local demand.

But health authorities see the issue differently. The National Authority for the Campaign Against Drug Abuse (NACADA) classifies muguka and miraa as drugs because they contain psychoactive substances—cathinone and cathine—which stimulate the central nervous system. According to NACADA, users experience heightened energy, alertness and euphoria, but these effects come with serious risks. Long-term use has been linked to dehydration, dental problems, reproductive health issues, insomnia, anxiety, impaired thinking and dependency.

Muguka is often taken alongside alcohol, cannabis, narcotics and misused prescription drugs, a combination that increases the danger to users. While muguka and khat are widely consumed in Kenya and parts of the Horn of Africa, they are restricted or criminalised in countries such as Tanzania and Rwanda. They are banned in most parts of Europe, as well as in the United States and Canada.

Community leaders and parents say the impact on young people is visible on the streets. They claim prolonged use leaves many youths withdrawn, idle and unproductive, contributing to crime, theft and rising stress levels among unemployed young people. Critics argue that the habit is quietly draining the country’s work force.