In Summary
- Muratina holds a special place in the Kikuyu culture , often consumed during significant cultural ceremonies.
- Efforts to preserve and promote traditional brewing practices ensure that Muratina continues to thrive as a cherished aspect of Kenyan heritage
- Muratina is now a legal drink in Kenya
Muratina, deeply rooted in Kikuyu culture, is a traditional alcoholic beverage revered for its unique ingredients and cultural significance.
Crafted from the fermented sap of the African sausage tree, known scientifically as Kigelia africana.
Muratina embodies centuries-old traditions passed down through generations.
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What is muratina?
The sausage tree, characterized by its large, sausage-shaped fruits, yields a sap rich in sugars and nutrients, ideal for fermentation.
To prepare Muratina, the sap is extracted from the sausage tree and combined with honey and water to initiate the fermentation process.
This concoction is then left to ferment naturally, allowing the sugars to convert into alcohol over time.
The result is a potent and slightly sweet alcoholic beverage with a distinct flavor profile reflective of its natural ingredients.
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Significance of muratina
Speaking to Ghetto Radio,Grace Wairimu,a Muratina seller explains that muratina is an important type of alchol to the Kikuyu community.
“Muratina is a Kikuyu cultural drink that acts as alcohol. Incase of a ceremony such as ruracio,it is the first and most important drink of the ceremony.The drink acts as a unifying factor to the community as individuals come together to drink,”Wairimu explained.
Muratina holds a special place in Kikuyu society, with people often consuming it during significant cultural ceremonies, rituals, and celebrations.
It serves as more than just a beverage; it symbolizes community, tradition, and unity.
Sharing Muratina fosters social bonds and strengthens relationships among friends, family, and community members.
Legalization
In a jugdment issued by a High Court judge Abigail Mshila,she said that the brew is not illicit.She termed it as a drink that is part of the Kikuyu’s culture and traditions.
“The court orders the Kiama Kia Ma with the assistance of the local Chiefs to continue to regulate the preparation and consumption of muratina without prejudice and existing laws,”Mshila ruled.
The court’s ruling emerged from a petition submitted by 12 Ndeiya Traditional Brewers, who sought redress due to the infringement of their rights by the Kiambu County commander, county commissioner, Ndeiya Sub County OCPD, and the area deputy county commissioner.
Business
With the legalization of muratina, we anticipate a significant shift in the business landscape surrounding its production and distribution.
The transitions from an illicit drink to a legally recognized cultural beverage, creates space for changes to take place.
“Now that the drink is legal,people are going to buy and drink it without fear.We expect more customers.hence the economy to go up,”Wairimu pointed out.
“Alot of people will pick selling Muratina as a business and their source of income,”Wairimu added.
With the newfound legality of muratina, traditional brewers are poised to ramp up production and expand their market reach.
Formerly operating under the shadow of legal restrictions, these brewers can now openly engage in their craft without fear of persecution, leading to an anticipated surge in muratina availability in local markets and traditional ceremonies.
The legalization of muratina represents not only a significant milestone in recognizing Kenya’s cultural diversity but also an opportunity for economic growth and social cohesion within the Kikuyu community and beyond.
As the traditional brew business undergoes transformation, stakeholders anticipate a better future .
This is where muratina takes its place as a respected and celebrated beverage on the market.
