By John Kariuki
The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) Holdings Board, alongside 54 tea factory companies under its management, has raised urgent concerns over political interference that is destabilizing the tea sector. This interference, they warn, is undermining tea sales in international markets and cutting into the earnings of small-scale farmers.
Key challenges highlighted include the unilateral removal of reserve prices without proper consultations, public declarations by politicians regarding factory separations, and impromptu meetings convened by government agencies that disrupt operations. These actions, the KTDA says, are creating chaos in a sector that has been a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy.
Speaking today in Nairobi, the Directors called on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and democratic processes governing the industry. “Political interference not only destabilizes the sector but also jeopardizes the livelihoods of thousands of farmers who depend on tea production,” they said.
The Directors urged government agencies and political leaders to engage constructively and avoid actions that disrupt the industry. They emphasized that protecting Kenya’s reputation as a global leader in quality tea production is crucial to securing sustainable growth.
The call has been backed by key industry players, including Nduti Tea Factory Company Limited, Ngere Tea Factory, Majani Insurance Brokers Ltd, Ketepa Ltd, and Mungania Tea Factory Co Ltd, as well as the KTDA Foundation and the Tea Farmers Forum-Kenya.
With Kenya’s tea industry at a critical juncture, stakeholders are being urged to unite and prioritize stability to safeguard the future of tea farmers and the sector as a whole.