The reported entry of Ethiopia into the Somalia miraa business has left traders in Kenya anxious about losing the lucrative market to their northern neighbours for good. The developments has sent shock-waves among Kenyan traders, who have monopolised the Mogadishu market for ages. Ethiopian khat dealers hold sway over the Hargeisa market, which Kenyan traders have failed to penetrate due to hefty taxes. Nyambene Miraa Traders Association chairman Kimathi Munjuri said the Somali government has also beefed up security on its coastal waters to bar entry of Kenyan khat via the sea. Seven-month banMr Munjuri asked the Kenya government to engage in diplomatic talks to avert losing the prized Somalia market.

Source: Ethiopian News October 20, 2020 15:45 UTC