This archive report was first published on 5 December 2019.
On December 5, 2019, small-scale tea farmers affiliated to Kapkatet Tea Factory in Kericho County held a general meeting to address their grievances with the county government, led by Governor Paul Chepkwony.
The farmers demanded an explanation from the management for the non-release of their cess funds, which are meant to improve roads in the tea zones. The funds have not been released by the governor, according to the Kapkatet Tea Factory directors.
During the meeting, the farmers expressed frustration over the impassable roads, which hinder their tea production and transportation. They called on Governor Chepkwony to come out clean and explain why the funds have not been released.
Interestingly, while some farmers appear to support Governor Chepkwony's idea of auctioning tea in Kericho town to serve the West of Rift, the management led by regional manager Charles Manegene rubbished the idea, citing the competition from Mombasa.
