In a breakthrough that brings fresh hope to thousands of miraa farmers across Kenya, the country has struck a new trade agreement allowing the export of miraa to Djibouti—a move hailed as a lifeline for growers long burdened by limited market access and diplomatic setbacks.
The long-awaited development follows months of quiet but intense diplomacy between the two nations. It began with a Kenyan trade mission to Djibouti in October 2024, followed by a high-level return visit from Djiboutian officials in November. The result: a formal trade pact that now opens Djibouti’s doors to Kenya’s miraa.
But the green light comes with conditions—strict regulatory compliance. Exporters are expected to meet both Kenyan and Djiboutian standards, secure the appropriate permits, and follow all institutional guidelines to ensure smooth trade operations.
The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), through Director General Dr. Bruno Linyira, celebrated the agreement as a major win for Kenya’s agricultural diplomacy and a vital step in expanding miraa’s international footprint.
“This agreement is more than trade—it’s opportunity. It’s the chance for our farmers to connect with new markets, earn a dignified living, and revive an industry that has seen its share of setbacks,” said Dr. Linyira.
For many miraa farmers, especially in Meru and surrounding regions, the Djibouti deal feels like a turning point—a new chapter after years of uncertainty.
The industry had suffered a major blow when Somalia, its biggest market, imposed a ban in 2020 amid diplomatic tensions. Although trade resumed in 2022, the scars of that disruption still linger.
Now, with Djibouti in the picture, there is renewed optimism.
“We’ve waited for this. It means our work finally has value again,” said one farmer, overwhelmed with emotion after hearing the news.
As Kenya strengthens its agricultural trade networks, miraa is once again being recognized—not just as a crop, but as a symbol of resilience and the power of regional cooperation.
The call now is for exporters to act quickly, comply fully, and seize this historic window. The Djibouti market is open—and the future of miraa could be brighter than ever.
