Miraa exporters decry airport cartels sabotaging trade

Kenyan miraa exporters have sounded the alarm over what they describe as a powerful cartel operating at airports, frustrating their efforts to access international markets.

The traders allege that the cartel blocks them from offloading and distributing consignments unless they pay hefty unofficial fees, a practice they warn is crippling the once-lucrative trade.

Speaking during a press briefing on Friday at a hotel along Thika Road, exporters led by Mohamed Aden claimed the cartel has been demanding USD 3.5 (about Ksh. 460) for every kilogram of miraa exported. Aden cautioned that the millions of shillings collected daily could end up financing terrorism in the region.

“This situation is unsustainable. It is not just farmers who are suffering but also the country’s economy,” said exporter Abdala Juma.

He urged President William Ruto to intervene and dismantle the network, accusing some government operatives, including cabinet ministers, of colluding with the cartel and depriving the nation of much-needed revenue.

A miraa farmer and activist Mike Makarina added that exporters remain the only link between farmers and fair prices.

“If exporters fail to ship the miraa, then farmers’ produce goes to waste,” he stressed.

Kenya’s miraa industry remains a vital economic lifeline, earning the country about Ksh. 16.5 billion (USD 231.7 million) over the past five years, making it the leading fresh export to African markets. Key destinations include Somalia, Uganda, South Africa, Egypt, Djibouti, Mozambique and Malawi.

The exporters warned that unless urgent action is taken, Kenya risks losing its competitive edge in the regional market.