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{
    "id": 1506980,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1506980/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 28,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Kathuri",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 13590,
        "legal_name": "Murungi Kathuri",
        "slug": "murungi-kathuri"
    },
    "content": "income. The drastic price reduction is the latest symptom of a sector plagued by mismanagement, inadequate support and the unchecked influence of cartels who continue to profit from the exploitation of farmers. As a result, the economic future of these farmers are in jeopardy, with many unable to meet basic needs due to the collapse of miraa prices. The Federal Government of Somalia's decision to suspend flights delivering miraa to the Horn of Africa country has had a severe impact on the market for this key export crop. We need a comprehensive report detailing the causes of the recurring Kenya- Somalia diplomatic tensions, which have contributed to this suspension. The report should also include the steps being taken to resolve these tensions in the long term to ensure that Kenyan farmers are not disproportionately affected by these diplomatic disputes. We must address this issue, not just in the short term, but through a sustainable solution that will guarantee access to Somalia's market, which remains one of the largest for Kenya miraa. The cartels operating in the miraa sector have long been a source of frustration for farmers and traders alike. The Government must provide a clear statement on whether the State Department for Trade has undertaken any significant actions to dismantle these cartels. This should include an assessment of the impact of these cartels on farmers' incomes and the broader miraa value chain. Additionally, we need to understand the transparency of the monthly levies charged at the airport for miraa exports, who exactly is benefiting from these levies and how are they contributing to the overall development of the miraa sector. Mr. Speaker, Sir, in light of Somalia's actions regarding miraa quotas and market access, the Government must clarify whether it is considering a firm response, including the possibility of closing the Kenya-Somalia border to push back against Somalia's decisions. This is a critical matter, not just for the miraa sector, but for bilateral relations between our two countries. The Government must outline the potential implications of such actions on both the miraa trade and the livelihoods of Kenyans, particularly those in the affected regions. Furthermore, what diplomatic steps are being taken to prevent the escalation of tensions and secure long-term access to the Somali market? Mr. Speaker, Sir, there is a pressing need for transparency in the management of resources allocated to the miraa sector. The Senate should be provided with a detailed report on the budgetary allocations to the miraa, pyrethrum and Industrial Crops Directorate for the last three financial years; that is, 2021/2022, 2022/2023 and 2023/2024. This report should include information on how these funds have been utilised and whether there have been any investigations into their misappropriation. Additionally, the Cabinet Secretary must clarify the status of any charges or convictions related to such misappropriation. This is critical to maintaining public trust and ensuring the effective use of taxpayer resources in supporting agricultural development. The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Director, Hansard and AudioServices, Senate."
}