The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) directors
representing the East of Rift region have moved to calm growing concern among
tea farmers following reduced earnings for the 2024/2025 financial year.
Speaking in a joint statement, the board members
acknowledged widespread frustration from farmers and stakeholders over lower
bonus payments compared to last year but attributed the decline to global
market conditions, weakened foreign exchange rates, and reduced production.
According to the directors, the average price of made tea
dropped sharply from Sh389 per kilo last year to Sh309 this year, while the
value of the US dollar — which largely determines export earnings — fell from
Sh144 to Sh129, slashing overall revenue when converted to Kenya shillings.
They further explained that green leaf production in the
region fell by about 12 percent, from 1.4 billion kilograms to 1.2 billion
kilograms, while carry-over stock from the previous year was sold at lower
prices after reserve price restrictions were lifted.
Despite these setbacks, the East of Rift factories
maintained relatively strong performance, recording some of the best returns
nationally.
Average made tea prices per county stood at Sh371 in Kiambu,
Sh376 in Murang’a, Sh388 in Nyeri, Sh400 in Kirinyaga, Sh404 in Embu, and Sh381
in Meru.
The directors noted that the East of Rift region continues
to attract better prices due to its commitment to quality and traceability.
“Our factories have
invested in modern processing technologies and uphold strict quality
standards,” the statement said.
“We have no tea hawkers in this region — every leaf is delivered directly to the factory, ensuring full transparency and consistency.”
On accountability, the board members emphasized that all
farmer earnings are properly accounted for and subjected to regular audits.
They expressed full
support for the Ministry of Agriculture’s audit directive and pledged
cooperation with lawful governance processes.
“We welcome scrutiny because we have nothing to hide,” the
statement read.
“Anyone found to have
misused farmers’ money should face the law.”
The directors also cautioned against political interference
in the tea sector, warning that it undermines investor confidence and disrupts
international markets.
“KTDA is a private
organization owned by farmers and should be allowed to operate independently,”
they said.
Looking ahead, the board outlined several strategies to
stabilize farmer incomes — including expanding value addition, diversifying
markets, and investing in renewable energy to cut production costs.
They concluded by reaffirming their commitment to
transparency and sustainability:
“The East of Rift remains united in protecting farmers’
interests and ensuring Kenya’s tea industry remains globally competitive.”
