The government, through the Ministry of Interior, has announced the reopening of the Kenya-Somalia border to facilitate the export of miraa from the country.
This follows a request made by the Chairman of the Nyambene Miraa Trade Association, who had written to the Ministry for the reopening of the delicate border for miraa farmers and traders.
In response, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo stated that the National Security Council Committee had ratified the reopening of the Kenya-Somalia border for cross-border trade.
According to the letter, the reopening specifically allows the transportation of miraa to Somalia through designated border points, including Mandera, Liboi and Kiunga.
A pick-up vehicle loaded with Miraa.
“This is in reference to your letter dated January 13, 2026, requesting confirmation on whether the Kenya-Somalia border is reopened, and a similar request made on behalf of Miraa traders,” read part of the letter.
“The National Security Council Committee ratified the reopening of our border with Somalia for cross-border trade at the specified border points of Mandera, Liboi and Kiunga specifically for the transportation of Miraa by road to Somalia,” it added.
The announcement follows a recent diplomatic engagement between Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma and the Ambassador of Somalia to Kenya on the same matter.
On January 13, 2026, Somalia’s Ambassador hosted Governor Mutuma and his delegation for talks aimed at strengthening Kenya-Somalia economic ties, with a strong focus on trade, agriculture and cross-border cooperation.
In a statement moments after the meeting, the Embassy said the discussions were constructive and centred on enhancing bilateral trade relations while supporting local communities on both sides of the border.
Following the reopening of the border, Governor Mutuma termed the move a major boost for farmers and traders in Meru County and other miraa-growing regions.
“Under my leadership, the reopening of the Kenya-Somalia border for miraa trade is a big win for our farmers and traders, bringing back this key market and boosting livelihoods across Meru,” he said.
The latest development comes as a major relief for miraa traders who had suffered heavy losses, reduced farm prices and job cuts due to the border closure.
Miraa leaves in being sold in bundles at a Kenyan market on June 3, 2023.
Photo
Obaithibutu Miraa
