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Nairobi, Kenya, September 12, 2024 — The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has acknowledged the concerns raised by farmers regarding the separation of accounts for satellite factories from their parent factories. The issue has sparked discussions among factory shareholders, prompting KTDA to take swift action.
In response, a tripartite meeting was held on Wednesday, led by KTDA’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Wilson Muthaura. The meeting, chaired by Agriculture Principal Secretary Dr. Paul Ronoh, included the participation of the Tea Board of Kenya. The primary focus was to establish a clear roadmap for separating the accounts of satellite factories from their parent factories.
KTDA has announced plans to hold further consultative meetings next week with the respective directors of the factory companies that own the 17 satellite factories. These discussions aim to address the concerns of smallholder farmers and develop a mutually beneficial solution.
KTDA emphasized its commitment to safeguarding the interests of smallholder farmers, who remain its key stakeholders. The agency reassured farmers that their welfare is a top priority and urged them to continue with their normal tea production activities during this period of consultations.
The outcome of these ongoing discussions is expected to bring clarity and consensus on the financial independence of the satellite factories while ensuring the continued growth and success of the tea industry in Kenya.
