This archive report was first published on 17 October 2019.
Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) is facing a backlash from farmers in Tigania East, Meru, over plans to block the construction of a satellite tea factory.
Since 2007, KTDA has been deducting Sh1 per kilogramme from the 11,000 shareholders of Miciimikuru Tea Factory, with the aim of raising Sh270 million for the project.
However, KTDA has now expressed opposition to the project, citing the proximity of the proposed site to Athi Tea Factory, which was constructed in 2010 as a satellite to Kiegoi Tea Factory.
According to KTDA, the new factory would not get enough green leaf, making it an unviable option.
But farmers are adamant that they have contributed enough money and are demanding that KTDA delivers on its promise.
"After presentation of the report, farmers will decide whether to build a new factory or not," said Miciimikuru Tea Factory board chairman Francis Akula.
KTDA's decision to oppose the project has left farmers feeling frustrated and betrayed.
"We will need more than Sh600 million for the construction of a satellite factory. Our concern is that debt financing may reduce farmers' earnings and this is why we were considering co-owning Athi factory," said Mr. Akula.
