Mar 19 β€’ 09:41 UTC 🌍 Africa AllAfrica

Kenya: Government Injects 3.5 Billion Shillings to Revamp Tea Sector

The Kenyan government has allocated 3.5 billion Shillings to improve the tea industry, enhancing farmers' income and addressing corruption within the Kenya Tea Development Authority.

The Kenyan government is making significant investments in the tea sector by injecting 3.5 billion Shillings aimed at refurbishing tea industries and enhancing their capacity to meet international standards. This financial support is set to not only increase the quality of tea but also facilitate value addition, allowing farmers to command better prices at auction centers like Mombasa. Such moves are crucial for improving the livelihoods of tea farmers who heavily rely on this crop for their income.

Additionally, Agriculture Principal Secretary Kiprono Rono has emphasized the government's commitment to prioritizing the welfare of farmers. At the same time, he admonished the Kenya Tea Development Authority (KTDA) Board regarding issues of corruption and the misappropriation of funds designated for the tea factories. This warning reflects a growing concern about transparency and accountability within this vital sector, as financial irregularities can derail the intended benefits of government interventions.

To further support farmers, Rono announced a new price of 26 Shillings per kilo to be paid to tea farmers, an increase from the previous 16 Shillings per kilo. This price adjustment is expected to positively affect the farmer's income and encourage greater production. His remarks were made during a ceremony at the Olenguruoni Tea factory, which also saw the issuance of a corporation certificate, allowing the factory to independently operateβ€”a step towards empowering local tea producers.

πŸ“‘ Similar Coverage