The Kenyan government has recently made a significant announcement regarding the implementation of the Miraa Levy, in line with the Crops (Miraa) Regulations, 2023.

The regulations, which were published on April 5th, 2023, aim to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for the Miraa sub-sector in Kenya.

According to the announcement, the framework is designed to facilitate trade through the registration and licensing of various players within the Miraa value chain," the public notice read.

"The Crops (Miraa) Regulations, 2023 was published on 5th April 2023 thus providing the Regulatory Framework for the Miraa sub-sector in Kenya.

"The Regulations contain various provisions that are Geared towards trade facilitation through registration and licensing of value chain players."

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Over the past year, the Miraa sub-sector has experienced substantial improvement, particularly following the reopening of the Somalia Market in July 2022.

These positive developments have paved the way for the timely implementation of licensing procedures, ensuring proper regulation and control within the industry.

However, the implementation of the Miraa Levy was temporarily delayed due to the need for an enabling framework.

This delay allowed for the development and completion of the e-platform on the Agricultural and Food Authority's (AFA) Integrated Management Information System.

In a public notice released by the Authority, it has been officially announced that the Miraa Levy, as stipulated in Regulation 31 of the Crops (Miraa) Regulations, 2023, will take effect from July 1st, 2023.

"In this regard, the Authority hereby notifies the general public that the Miraa Levy provided for under Regulations 31 of Crops (Miraa) Regulations, 2023 shall take effect from 1st July 2023," the notice read.

The government urges all stakeholders in the Miraa sub-sector to strictly adhere to the provisions outlined in the regulations and ensure full compliance.

"The stakeholders are required to adhere to the provisions of the Crops (Miraa) Regulations 2023 And ensure compliance," the notice further read.

The introduction of the Miraa Levy is expected to have a substantial impact on the industry, promoting transparency and accountability while providing a source of revenue for the government.

The funds generated from this levy will be instrumental in supporting the growth and development of the Miraa sub-sector, contributing to its sustainability and long-term success.

It is now incumbent upon the stakeholders to embrace the new levy and work together to build a robust Miraa sub-sector that will continue to contribute to the socio-economic fabric of the nation.