Wajir County has begun putting in place enforcement structures following the assent of the Wajir County Miraa and Other Substances Control Act, 2025, which introduces strict controls on the sale and consumption of miraa.
The law, signed by Governor Ahmed Abdullahi into law last Friday in Wajir establishes a county authority that will oversee licensing, enforcement and public awareness on substance control.
County officials said the Act follows months of public participation in all six sub-counties, where residents raised concerns over an alarming rise in drug abuse and miraa consumption among school-going children and its link to insecurity and family breakdown.
Under the new law, miraa trading will be restricted to designated zones, with a ban on sales near schools, health facilities and places of worship.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Ahmed said the county will prioritize implementation to address long-standing concerns raised by communities.
“This law provides a clear enforcement framework to protect learners, patients and worshippers from exposure to miraa and other harmful substances,” he said.
The Act also provides for rehabilitation programmes for individuals affected by substance use.
County officials noted that the provision was included after repeated calls for support services during public hearings.
County Assembly Speaker Abdille Yussuf said the House passed the legislation unanimously, terming it a reflection of residents’ views gathered during the participation forums.
Nominated MCA Adan Ali Issack urged miraa traders to comply with the new zoning rules.
“Public submissions highlighted miraa as a major entry point for other drugs. Compliance is important as we work to safeguard the youth,” he said.
Residents who attended the ceremony welcomed the move, saying it responds to long-standing community appeals.
“We asked for regulation because miraa was affecting our families and children. We now expect strict enforcement,” said Ahmed Ismael from Borwaqo Ward.
County officials said the next phase will involve mapping designated miraa trading zones, sensitizing traders and deploying enforcement teams under the newly formed authority.
by Hamdi Buthul
