GAROWE (Kaab TV) – Members of the Puntland State Parliament have proposed banning khat, stating it poses serious risks to security, economy, and social progress.
They reported that nearly half a billion dollars are lost to khat across Somalia, highlighting that Puntland in particular suffers severe economic damage due to its consumption, as stated in their official declaration.
“Khat causes serious problems for our society. Migration and illegal movement will continue unless we address the economic issues, of which khat is a part. As parliamentarians, we have a responsibility. In developed countries, it is banned,” said MP Kuluc.
The lawmaker cited several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, where khat is prohibited in order to control economic and social challenges.
“The United States banned it 25 years ago. In the UK, other European countries, and many Arab nations, khat is not consumed. The only Arab country where it is still used is Yemen, which is itself struggling. A significant portion of people’s money is wasted on khat, and it negatively impacts our economy, health, and morals,” MP Kuluc added.
Discussions about plans to ban khat have begun in areas of Puntland, with differing opinions emerging among the stakeholders on both sides of the debate.