Farmers in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, have voiced their strong support for the full implementation of recent tea sector reforms, citing improved returns and enhanced livelihoods as key benefits. These sentiments were expressed during a meeting held to confirm newly elected directors from Theta and Ndarugu tea factories on Friday.
The reforms, spearheaded by the government, have revitalized Kenya’s tea sector, reclaiming its status as the country’s ‘green gold’. Farmers are now witnessing increased prices for their produce, translating into tangible improvements in their income and sustained activity on their farms.
James Waweru, a prominent farmer in the region, expressed confidence in the leadership of elected directors and the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) management. “Our directors and KTDA management have assured us of forthcoming increases in tea bonuses and the green leaf pay we receive monthly,” he remarked optimistically.
The farmers have also been advocating for an upward adjustment of the green leaf pay from Sh25 to Sh30 per kilogram, a move they believe will further enhance their earnings. They welcomed the resolution of legal disputes initiated by former directors challenging their removal, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted progress in sector reforms.
Leah Wanjiru, another farmer present at the meeting, highlighted the positive outlook for the future of the tea sector. “We foresee a promising future ahead, both for our personal prosperity and for the economic growth of our country,” she commented.
Member of Parliament Gabriel Kagombe, who serves as one of the directors, underscored the potential of Kenyan tea to command competitive prices in global markets through value addition initiatives. “Once we fully integrate value addition into our tea production process, we anticipate not only higher incomes for our farmers but also substantial foreign exchange earnings for our nation,” Kagombe affirmed.
The recent establishment of a tea research and value addition center in Kericho has been lauded as a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing tea quality and market competitiveness. Stakeholders including KTDA and the Tea Board of Kenya have been urged to intensify efforts towards transforming Kenyan tea into a globally sought-after beverage, akin to soda, beer, and cocoa.
Wanyoike Gatithi, re-elected chairman of Theta tea factory, assured farmers of imminent increases in tea bonuses by October, attributing these positive developments to the sector’s stability and enhanced production. Plans are also underway to provide subsidized fertilizers to farmers ahead of the rainy season to bolster yields.
As farmers in Gatundu South look forward to reaping even greater rewards from their tea farms, they remain optimistic about the transformative impact of ongoing reforms on their lives and the broader economy.
