By Njeri Irungu
The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has raised concerns over increasing political and government interference in the management of smallholder tea factories. The agency cited several instances, including the removal of the reserve price at the Mombasa Tea Auction without consultation, directives on factory separations affecting farmers’ property rights, and impromptu government meetings burdening factory directors.
A major dispute has emerged at Michimikuru Tea Factory, where a duly elected board was declared suspended by the Agriculture PS and a local MP without due process. KTDA condemned the move, stating it violated corporate governance laws. The agency also accused the National Police Service of facilitating illegal meetings while failing to prevent violence at a disrupted Annual General Meeting in December 2024. A court has since issued an injunction halting the implementation of disputed resolutions.
KTDA warned that such interference is damaging investor confidence and affecting international tea sales, ultimately reducing farmers’ earnings. The agency urged stakeholders to respect legally elected boards and resolve disputes through dialogue and legal channels.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and the rule of law, KTDA assured farmers and the public that it is seeking an audience with President William Ruto to address these concerns and protect the industry
