In recent elections held across various tea factories in Murang’a County, current directors largely retained their positions, signaling strong support for continuity and ongoing reforms within the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA). The elections, overseen by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) at designated tea buying centers, saw many former directors unable to reclaim their seats against incumbent directors.
Murang’a County, known for its extensive tea farming zones spanning Mathioya, Kangema, Kahuro, Kigumo, Kandara, and Gatanga sub-counties, houses 10 tea factories. Directors from factories such as Nduti, Gatunguru, Njunu, Makomboki, Gacharage, and Ikumbi emerged victorious, showcasing strong local support and endorsement of their leadership.
Several notable results included:
- Directors Chege Kirundi (Kiru), John Kahari (Kanyenyaini), and Nancy Wangari (Nduti) ran unopposed and secured their positions automatically.
- At Ngere factory, James Githinji, a KTDA Board Member, attributed the success of current directors to their dedication to implementing tea sector reforms, which have positively impacted farmers with increased green leaf prices and timely bonus payments.
Challenges during the election process, including logistical delays that initially postponed voting, were addressed, ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi emphasized the importance of electing leaders of integrity and trustworthiness, underscoring the government’s commitment to impartiality in the tea sector’s governance.
The re-elections reflect local optimism in the ongoing reforms and the leadership’s efforts to enhance the tea industry’s sustainability and prosperity in Murang’a County.