30/09/2025
The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has addressed the recent concerns raised by farmers and the public on expected lower bonuses for this year.
Farmers have been anxiously awaiting this year’s final bonus announcement, as indications suggest that the payouts will be lower than last year’s, sparking concern among growers who depend on the crop for their livelihoods.
KTDA, which manages more than half of the country’s production, has been under immense pressure to deliver reforms.
Its new leadership, under Chairman Chege Kirundi, has pledged a “Farmers First” approach aimed at lowering operational costs, ensuring transparency in auctions, and introducing innovative marketing strategies.
Farmers, however, are eager to see action beyond promises, particularly in areas such as timely delivery of inputs and efficiency in factory operations.
Kenya is the top exporter of black tea and second only to China in production, but it still depends on bulk sales through the Mombasa auction, which is easily affected by market changes.
