Khat (Catha edulis Forsk), or chat in Amharic, has been cultivated and used for centuries by the indigenous people in Ethiopia and the surrounding countries, including Somalia, Eritrea, Kenya and Yemen. Fresh leaves of khat are chewed primarily to attain a state of stimulation and euphoria. For the majority of these people, the use of khat is an established cultural tradition for a variety of social situations. In these countries, the consumption and trading of khat are legal in most cases. [continues 792 words]
Sir -- I have read an article titled "Fair trade farmers in Ethiopia" by an anonymous author. Referring to khat, it has been implied that the use of the herb in Britain is illegal. This is not true. Khat in Britain is not yet covered under the Misuse of Drugs Act and thus its possession and supply is perfectly legal. Consequently, khat is imported to Britain and sold opely by greengrocers, specialist health food shops and "head shops". Please don't scare those heavy consumers from your neighbourhood. Worku A. Woldemichael [end]
