Tea farmers will be paid the bonus as a result of ongoing reforms in tea sector, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS), Peter Munya directed.
Munya asked why the payment should be delayed to October, after the financial year has ended by June 30Th.
Yesterday, the CS addressed farmers at Kangaita, Thumaita and Kimunye Tea factories in Kirinyaga County. He stated that the monthly payment will not be delayed again and that it will be paid immediately, just like other institutions that pay their workers on time.
“Former KTDA Board had formed a tendency of retaining The bonus at banks from end of June only to start the payments in October,” he noted.
“Consequently, huge sums of money accrued high interest which officials used to enjoy at the expense of the farmers,” Munya divulged.
“The farmers will be receiving their monthly payments on or by 5th of the coming month directly channelled to their bank accounts,” he assured.
The CS said the reforms will be fully implemented for the benefit of the farmer and ensuring that no more cartels benefit from farmers’ hard work.
“These reforms we embarked on from May last year will continue being implemented to the letter for the good of the sector and the individual farmer. Never again will the government allow cartels to dominate and control the tea sector,” he vowed.
The CS who was accompanied by the new KTDA top Board members also asked the farmers to redouble their efforts and increase productivity through proper crop husbandry for even better yields and high returns.
Mithamo wa Susana, Zone Five Board Member, was present and assured the farmers that his fellow members would ensure their interests were protected against any cartels that might emerge.
Munya stated that the ministry will send auditors to audit Saccos following complaints from farmers about high interest rates. According to the CS, Saccos in the area are reportedly charging farmers high rates against the government rates. They complained of paying 18 per cent against the government’s rate of eight per cent.
“We have received complaints that some Saccos are charging more on interest rate than the government’s directive. Farmers have continued to pay highly, and the ministry is going to send auditors to address the concern,” Munya promised.
He also advised farmers who have not yet registered with their respective factories to do this to ensure they are eligible for the fertilizers.
“Those that have not registered should do so with their respective factories and local administration. We are trying to cut off crafty businessmen from silos in the country, ” he concluded.
By Mutai Kipngetich
Source: kenyanews
