Kenya seeks new market for Khat after dispute with Somalia

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Kenya’s Ministry for Commerce plans to look for three new markets for Khat exports as a diplomatic dispute has delayed the recovery of Somalia’s largest market.

Secretary-General Johnson Weru, who met with a business delegation led by Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi on Friday said the ministry would begin participation in countries including Djibouti, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique.

Mr Weru said the ministry would report on new markets by the end of March next year.

“We have received a request from farmers and will work with our diplomatic service to open dialogue with Djibouti, DR Congo, Mozambique and other African countries. The county government should mobilize farmers to abide by the laws of the countries we trade with, ” Mr Weru said.

Disagreement between Somalia and Kenya led government to stop Khaat which comes from Kenya as growing concerns mount over the two neighboring nations.