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Mututho’s boon to city miraa traders


New Nacada boss John Mututho has called for the declassification of miraa (khat) as a drug.

Currently, miraa is classified as a drug under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Control Act of 1994.

According to the Act, substances containing Cathine and Cathinone qualify to be rated as stimulants.

Speaking to the ad hoc National Assembly Committee probing the effects of miraa,  Mr Mututho outlined sections of the Act that need to be amended or repealed altogether.

Miraa is widely consumed by young people in Nairobi. Debate on whether it is a drug or not began in July after the United Kingdom banned importation of the plant.

Miraa consumption induces mild euphoria and excitement, similar to that conferred by strong coffee.

Individuals become very talkative under the influence of the plant.