Embu North Constituency Member of Parliament Muriuki Njagagua stated that the Sh167 million allocated for miraa farming development remains inadequate to meet the sector's needs, calling for increased government support.
The MP highlighted that the funds, part of a Sh1.2 billion national allocation, fail to address critical requirements such as borehole drilling, dam construction, market infrastructure, and farmer training programs.
Njagagua emphasized the funds fall short of requirements, urging further allocations. "We will continue advocating for additional resources to ensure sustainable growth," he said in a phone interview with the Star.
The MP noted that miraa farmers require business management training and market expansion opportunities following the European Union's export ban on the crop. Despite the limitations, he acknowledged the allocation's potential to improve farming conditions and livelihoods.
Regional breakdown shows Meru received Sh670 million, while Tharaka Nithi got Sh41.9 million. Embu's plan includes drilling two boreholes at Evutoka Primary School and Ndagoma Catholic in Mbeere North, with three more in Mbeere South at Kamuguchu, Murindi, and Nyweri. The funds will also finance six market shade structures in Embu town and surrounding areas.
