The government has waived taxes on packaging materials used in tea production in a bid to reduce costs for smallholder farmers and increase earnings through value addition.
Speaking today in Kericho during a meeting with chairpersons of KTDA-managed smallholder tea factories from the West of Rift region, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the move is part of broader efforts to support the struggling tea sector.
“Packaging has been a major cost in the value addition process. Removing this burden will directly benefit farmers,” CS Kagwe said.
He stressed the importance of focusing on quality to unlock better prices in global markets. “The world wants quality tea. Two leaves and a bud — that’s what earns the premium,” he said.
To back this push, the Ministry of Agriculture will work with county governments to enhance extension services. Kagwe said the government is training a new group of agripreneurs who will conduct on-farm visits, advising farmers on soil health, good practices, and efficient use of inputs.
“This hands-on support is critical to ensuring our tea meets international standards and remains competitive,” he added.
The meeting was attended by Kericho Governor Dr. Erick Mutai, PS for Agriculture Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh, TBK Chairman Ndung’u Gathinji, KTDA Vice Chair Erick Chepkwony, KTDA CEO Wilson Muthaura, TBK CEO Willy Mutai, County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo, and Agriculture CEC Magerer Langat.