Farmers Demand Full Implementation of Tea Reforms for Increased Returns in Gatundu South, Kiambu County

Farmers in Gatundu South, Kiambu County, are calling for the full implementation of tea sector reforms to maximize their returns. The government’s reforms have streamlined the sector, revitalizing tea’s status as Kenya’s “green gold.” As a result, farmers are now fetching better prices for their produce, significantly improving their livelihoods and keeping them engaged in their farms.

At a recent meeting to confirm elected directors from Theta and Ndarugu tea factories, farmers expressed confidence in their leaders. James Waweru, a farmer, stated, “Our directors and KTDA management have promised farmers that there will be an increase in tea bonuses, and we also expect that the green leaf pay we receive every month will be increased.” This assurance has instilled hope among farmers, who are now looking to increase their yields.

The new leadership aims to secure better markets for Kenyan tea, which will likely drive prices even higher. Farmers have been advocating for an increment in the green leaf pay from Sh25 to Sh30 per kilogram. The recent dropping of legal suits filed by former directors challenging their ousting has further encouraged farmers, eliminating potential obstacles to the full implementation of reforms. “We don’t want any hurdles blocking the implementation of all reforms in this sector. We anticipate a great future for the sector and hope that tea will transform our lives and the country’s economy,” said Leah Wanjiru, another farmer.

MP Gabriel Kagombe, one of the directors, emphasized that Kenyan tea will fetch competitive prices in global markets once value addition is fully adopted. “Our farmers will enjoy a pay rise once we fully adopt tea value addition. There’s a ready market for tea products globally, which will also bring in billions in foreign exchange,” Kagombe stated. The tea research and value addition center in Kericho, established last month, is a testament to the current administration’s commitment to enhancing quality and boosting the sector.

Stakeholders, including the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) and the Tea Board of Kenya, are urged to work tirelessly to ensure that Kenyan tea becomes a competitive beverage like soda, beer, and cocoa. This expansion is expected to increase market reach and returns. Kagombe also challenged KTDA to invest in tea research to introduce high-yielding and special varieties that would fetch higher prices and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Wanyoike Gatithi, re-elected chairman of Theta Tea Factory, announced that farmers are expected to receive increased tea bonuses by October, attributing this to the ongoing reforms. He noted that the sector has stabilized, leading to a significant increase in tea production, with farmers producing high-quality tea. Plans have also been put in place to ensure all farmers receive adequate and subsidized fertilizer before the onset of rains to maximize their production.

The future of Kenya’s tea sector looks promising as the reforms continue to take root. With the anticipated pay rise and increased bonuses, farmers are optimistic about their prospects. The commitment from leadership to secure better markets and invest in research and value addition is set to further enhance the sector’s growth, benefiting not only the farmers but also the country’s economy. As the tea reforms progress, farmers in Gatundu South remain hopeful and determined to see their hard work translate into greater financial returns and improved livelihoods.