KTDA procures two million bags of fertiliser for tea farmers

The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has procured two million bags of fertiliser for over 600,000 tea farmers to be distributed starting next month. This procurement follows delays in shipment due to technical and logistical issues, as the fertiliser was initially planned for delivery this month before expected rainfall. KTDA National Chairman Enos Njeru stated that the agency received 99,000 metric tonnes of the fertiliser, worth two million bags (50kgs each), which will be made immediately available to waiting farmers.

Njeru also highlighted KTDA's efforts to diversify its market for local tea to boost farmers' earnings, as tea prices have dropped recently. The chairman mentioned that a court direction is awaited on a 0.8 per cent levy, which was gazetted by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe after farmers petitioned in court. KTDA is currently investigating allegations of irregular payments to a fertiliser supplier, amounting to approximately Ksh 322.5 million.

Njeru emphasized that KTDA and the tea sector have faced criticism and allegations and pledged to increase accountability in operations to protect the interests of 600,000 farmers nationwide. He urged the public to avoid unverified social media posts, sensational headlines, and speculative commentary. KTDA is committed to strengthening governance, financial discipline, accountability, and transparency in its operations.