(NANDI, KENYA) – The National Government has injected KES 79.1 million ($546,000 / £428,000) into KTDA’s Chebut Tea Factory for the purchase of modern machines to replace old and outdated equipment.
The investment is expected to enhance productivity and cut production costs. Chebut Tea Factory was established in 1972 and the current machines have been used since then. Most of them are worn out and have negatively affected production levels and the quality of produce.
Speaking after delivering the KES 79.1 million cheque to the management of Chebut Tea Factory, Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the current machines have resulted in low earnings for farmers.
Kagwe said the government is committed to improving and modernising the agricultural sector. He noted that the modern machines will go a long way in ensuring quantity and quality output, which translates to increased income for farmers.
“The new machines we are bringing here use less power. All these activities are designed to save the cost of production thus increasing the amount of money in the farmer’s pockets. The government is stepping in to ensure more production,” Kagwe said.
He urged farmers to play their part in applying fertilizer and taking other necessary measures that will add to productivity.
Kagwe noted that concerted efforts between farmers, county government and the national government result in increased profits. He called on farmers to stick to picking two leaves and a bud as a measure to ensure quality tea leaves.
He noted that about 6.5 million people depend on tea as a source of income. He said this is why the government is investing in the tea sector through machines to ensure farmers earn more and improve their lives.
The CS also warned those selling fake seeds to farmers that they will be dealt with severely. He termed the vice a form of economic sabotage. He called on farmers to be keen on where they purchase seedlings from, adding that quality certified seedlings result in high productivity.
Nandi County Deputy Governor Yulitta Mitei commended the government initiative on supporting the tea sector. She said that since the establishment of Chebut factory, this is the first time it has received such a grant.
She noted that the county government is working hard to address the issue of tea hawking and theft of agricultural products, which negatively impact on farmers’ earnings.
“We want to congratulate Chebut Tea factory for the strides it has made. The largest crop in Nandi under acreage is tea thus we want to thank the team that is working tirelessly to connect us to the market,” Mitei said.
She revealed that as a county, they are working on dealing with theft by curbing tea and avocado hawking.