Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and Kericho Governor Dr. Erick Mutai have raised the alarm over a mounting crisis in the tea sector, which threatens the livelihoods of thousands of farmers in their regions. At the heart of the issue is a backlog of over 45 million kilograms of unsold tea leaves, currently sitting at the Mombasa Tea Auction Centre. The governors voiced their concerns during a meeting with Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) officials, including newly elected National Vice Chairman Erick Chepkwony, held at a hotel in Bomet.
Growing Tea Stockpile and Financial Pressures
The crisis was triggered by the stagnation of tea sales at the auction center over recent weeks. Governor Barchok expressed his deep concern over the unsold stockpile, warning that the continued stagnation could lead to significant losses for farmers who rely on tea as their primary source of income. “We are deeply concerned with reports that tea from our farmers remains unsold in the Mombasa Tea Auction over the past few weeks. This situation could result in significant losses for our hard-working farmers, who rely on this cash crop to make ends meet,” he stated.
The financial strain on KTDA-owned factories in the region further compounds the problem. Many of these factories are struggling under the weight of substantial loans, raising fears of a broader financial collapse within the tea sector.
Governors Advocate for National Government Intervention
To mitigate these challenges, the governors are exploring ways to seek intervention from President William Ruto. Governor Barchok revealed plans to negotiate a bailout for the struggling tea sector, similar to the government bailouts that have been extended to the coffee and sugar industries in the past. “With the realization that most of our KTDA factories are currently burdened with heavy loans, we have resolved to negotiate for a bailout of the tea sector by the national government, the same way other sectors of our economy have been supported,” Barchok explained.
Kericho Governor Dr. Erick Mutai echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for immediate measures to improve the quality and competitiveness of tea from the region. He suggested that the Ministry of Agriculture should facilitate access to subsidized fertilizers and promote better crop husbandry practices to enhance the quality of the tea produced. Additionally, Dr. Mutai called for the government to consider waiving loans owed by tea farmers to the Agricultural Finance Corporation. He argued that such measures would be crucial in helping the tea sector recover and thrive again.
The Broader Implications for Kenya’s Economy
The tea industry is a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, contributing significantly to export earnings and providing livelihoods for millions of Kenyans. The current crisis, therefore, has far-reaching implications beyond the borders of Bomet and Kericho counties. A prolonged downturn in the tea sector could destabilize the entire economy, particularly in the rural areas where tea farming is the primary economic activity.
By calling for a bailout and other supportive measures, the governors aim to protect the livelihoods of tea farmers and maintain the industry’s contribution to the national economy. The proposed interventions, such as loan waivers and access to subsidized fertilizers, are seen as vital steps in stabilizing the sector and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
A Call for Immediate Action
As the two governors prepare to engage with the national government, anticipation is high among farmers in the region that these combined efforts will yield tangible solutions. The hope is that, with swift action and comprehensive support, the tea sector can be revitalized, securing the livelihoods of farmers and strengthening Kenya’s position as a leading tea exporter globally.
The tea crisis in Bomet and Kericho has brought to light the challenges facing Kenya’s agricultural sector, underscoring the need for robust support and strategic interventions from both county and national governments. As the dialogue between the county leaders and the national government continues, tea farmers remain hopeful that the necessary actions will be taken to address the crisis and safeguard their future.
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