Religious leaders in Wajir have lauded the County Assembly for initiating public consultations on the proposed ‘Miraa and Other Substances Control Bill, 2025’, terming it a crucial step towards addressing drug abuse among youth.
The Assembly’s Committee on Gender, Culture, Children, Sports, and Social Services on Monday held a public participation forum at the ICT Hall in Wajir town, engaging Muslim scholars under the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM).
The exercise marks the beginning of a week-long series of consultations on the draft legislation, which seeks to regulate the sale, distribution, and consumption of miraa and other intoxicating substances in the county.
Speaking during the session, Wagberi Ward MCA and committee member Adan Bulle said the Bill seeks to restrict the sale of miraa near learning institutions by setting a 300-metre buffer zone and prohibiting sale to minors.
He added that it also provides for regulated trading hours, licensing requirements, and hygiene standards for miraa stalls.
“The Bill further proposes the establishment of rehabilitation centres and calls for collaboration between county and national governments in addressing substance abuse,” said Bulle.
SUPKEM Chairperson Dr. Adan commended the County Assembly for what he termed as a bold and timely step in protecting young people from drug abuse. He urged the Assembly to impose tougher penalties for offenders.
“This Bill is a milestone in protecting our youth from addiction. For years, Wajir has lacked a clear legal framework to control these substances,” said Dr. Adan.
SUPKEM Secretary Hassan Osman called for greater involvement of religious leaders in the implementation and monitoring of the law once enacted.
“Faith-based institutions must play an active role in ensuring compliance and public awareness,” he said.
Participants proposed expanding the restriction radius for miraa trading to 1.5 kilometres, increasing licensing fees, and holding property owners accountable for illegal activities conducted on their premises.
Hassan Abdi Hussein, a participant, noted that drug abuse had ruined the lives of many young people and called for swift passage and implementation of the law.
Committee Chairperson said the County Assembly remains committed to inclusivity and transparency in lawmaking.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to ensuring that every voice counts in shaping policies that promote a drug-free, healthy, and productive Wajir County,” she said.
By Hamdi Buthul
