Kenyan President William Ruto has sparked outrage among Somalis after revealing his discussions with Somali leaders regarding Kenya’s khat (miraa) trade.
Over the past few days, Ruto has been touring various counties in the Mount Kenya region, a key voting bloc in the country, predominantly inhabited by the Kikuyu community. While addressing a gathering in Meru County—a region famous for khat farming—he spoke about improving market access for the product and ensuring farmers receive higher returns on their investments.
Speaking from the roof of his vehicle, Ruto told the people of Meru that he had personally discussed khat trade with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Somaliland President Abdirahman Irro, and Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe). He claimed these talks aimed to secure a larger market for Kenyan khat in Somalia and negotiate better prices for farmers.
“I spoke with the Presidents of Somalia, Jubaland, and Somaliland about the new pricing and the expansion of the market for the khat you export to Somalia. Moving forward, the agreed price will be set accordingly,” Ruto declared, prompting cheers from the Meru crowd.
However, his remarks triggered a massive backlash on Somali social media, where many condemned Somali leaders for prioritizing personal or political gains over their country’s welfare. Critics labeled them as “sellouts” who failed to protect national interests.
“This is a huge disgrace to every Somali,” one online commentator wrote. “Our leaders are now negotiating how to buy harmful substances at higher prices instead of focusing on their people’s needs.”
Adding to the controversy, Ruto also promised to eliminate middlemen exploiting khat farmers and consumers, ensuring direct benefits for growers.
Kenya and Ethiopia, both neighboring Somalia, have long supplied khat to Somali markets. Over the years, Somali leaders have often granted exclusive trade rights to political allies or family members, turning the industry into a lucrative yet controversial business. Many young Somalis have suffered from the widespread use of khat, with critics arguing that the trade prioritizes financial and political interests over public well-being.
