The government has vowed to undertake sweeping changes at the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) for it to respond better to the needs of the farmers.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said no one will be spared in the process as they embark on the implementation of tea reforms.
Speaking at the closure of the two-day national tea summit in Kericho, Gachagua stated that the reforms are key to a strong economy and improved lives of the small-holder tea farmers.
“Let nobody think this was a talk show. This is the beginning of restoring the dignity of the farmer. We must succeed,” Gachagua said.
Noting this was the only solution to rescue the farmer, Gachagua said divisions at the management of KTDA have continued to affect realization of expected results.
The Deputy President at the same time ordered the KTDA directors to withdraw cases in court.
This, he said, has delayed the supply of fertiliser to the farmers.
“We hope you will sit down and sort out who will supply the fertiliser for the farmer. We know some of the directors are sponsoring the ongoing court cases. You must withdraw the cases by Monday (next week),” he said.
He argued that even though the agency is not under the government, the interest of the farmer comes first.
"Fighting over who will supply fertiliser are driven by deal commissions, yet farmers are waiting for fertiliser as the rains continue pounding parts of the country," he said.
“We are a responsible government; we must ensure the farmers are taken care of,” he noted.
