Djibouti Opens Market for Kenyan Miraa in Major Boost to Farmers

By Ruth Sang

 In a significant win for Kenyan miraa (khat) farmers, Djibouti has officially opened its market to Kenyan miraa exports, offering a fresh economic lifeline for growers and traders affected by disruptions in traditional markets such as Somalia.

The announcement was confirmed by the Nyambene Miraa Traders Association (Nyamita), which welcomed the move as a critical step toward diversifying export destinations for the stimulant crop grown predominantly in Meru County.

“Djibouti has been waiting for our government to engage them as they are willing to take 10 tonnes of miraa daily,” said Kimathi Munjuri, Chairman of Nyamita.

According to Munjuri, Djibouti represents a high-potential market, with an estimated daily demand that could reach up to 10 tonnes. He noted that Kenyan exporters had previously operated in Djibouti before market dynamics shifted and that there are traders ready to resume business immediately.

The new opening comes as Kenya continues to face diplomatic and logistical hurdles with Somalia, historically the largest consumer of Kenyan miraa. Tensions between the two countries have disrupted trade flows, pushing stakeholders to seek alternative export routes.

Munjuri is now calling on both national and county governments to prioritize the inclusion of miraa sector stakeholders in trade negotiations to ensure smooth, long-term access to emerging markets.

“We have members who have traded in Djibouti before and can help reconnect Kenyan produce to that market,” he added.

The move is expected to inject fresh hope into the miraa value chain, benefiting not just farmers, but transporters, exporters, and local economies that rely heavily on the crop’s trade.