DEMYSTIFYING NEGATIVISM OF Cartha edulis (MIRAA) AND FOCUSING ON ITS RELIGIOUS, SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND EDUCATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE: A CASE OF MERU NORTH REGION IN MERU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

There have been conflicting views regarding Cartha edulis (miraa) effects. Miraa is a plant that when consumed affects human psychological and physiological functioning and, therefore, falls under the category of abusive drugs. The National Campaign against Drug Abuse Authority and other scholars have confirmed these effects. Whereas there are numerous negatives emanating from miraa farming, trade and consumption, there are also immense religious, social and economic benefits derived and associated with it. This study assessed the impact of miraa on religious, socio-economic and educational spheres of the society in Meru North. It was motivated by conflicting views of miraa farmers and traders, who also happen to be churches members located within the study area, and the alleged trade income used for social and economic developments. The study used ex-post facto design and targeted accessible population of elders, farmers, traders, church members and pastors. A sample size of 34 persons was interviewed using questionnaires and observation schedules for elders, farmers, traders, church members and pastors. There are both positive and negative contributions brought about by miraa farming and trade. Although the negatives outweigh the positives in terms of both short and long-term intangible damages to individuals, family and society, there are strong social, religious and economic attachments to miraa. Miraa has assumed political dimension as the community elects leaders based on expected protection of the trade by them. Exclusive focus on negatives has overshadowed potential financial, social, educational, religious, cultural and medicinal values. Miraa creates a contextual foundation for communication based on diverse perceptions. However, the negative implications of miraa, which greatly affect consumers, marriage, schools and churches, cannot be ignored. One wonders if it can serve a better purpose and value if handled properly among the community where it is grown.