Investors raise alarm over invasion of tea estates
The Kenya Tea Growers Association (KTGA), led by its Chairperson Silas Njibwakale, described the invasions as criminal acts that threaten private investments and the country's economic stability.
Investors involved in tea farming in the country have raised concerns over the ongoing invasion of tea estates, warning that this fresh wave of criminal activity could escalate into conflict.
The Kenya Tea Growers Association (KTGA), led by its Chairperson Silas Njibwakale, described the invasions as criminal acts that threaten private investments and the country's economic stability.
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Njibwakale detailed the attacks, which included theft and damage to property, resulting in significant losses. For instance, Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK) has been allegedly losing Sh30 million per month due to illegal activities.
"The Kenya Tea Growers Association is urging the government to intervene and restore security to prevent further economic losses and protect both local and national economies," Njibwakale said.
He highlighted that the invasions primarily target large-scale tea-producing estates, with particularly alarming cases occurring at Sitoi Estate in Nandi County, owned by Eastern Produce Kenya Limited, and Sambret Estate in Kericho County.
At Sitoi Estate, invaders have been plucking tea crops, leading to losses exceeding Sh30 million per month since August 2024. The invaders have also seized prime land, including the Sitoi Airstrip, a critical piece of infrastructure essential for the estate’s operations.
Njibwakale criticised the lack of adequate response from security agencies and the national government, stating that this inaction has emboldened the invaders and encouraged further violations, including the disregard of court orders.
"If these illegal invasions, theft, and damage to investments by organised crime syndicates are allowed to continue, the implications for local security, the rule of law, and investment will be dire," he warned.
Calling on President William Ruto and security agencies to take immediate action, Njibwakale emphasised that failure to address the issue would result in massive economic losses at a time when the government is prioritising revenue growth. He noted that both tax revenues and foreign exchange earnings are under threat.
"KTGA has observed, with grave concern, the invasion and illegal tea harvesting activities at Eastern Produce Kenya’s tea estate in Nandi County, as well as an attempted raid by armed individuals at Browns East Africa’s Sambret Estate," he stated.
He further alleged that in Nandi, well-organised criminal gangs with apparent political backing have established themselves at EPK's Sitoi Estate. These gangs have occupied key estate zones, including the Sitoi Airstrip, disrupting operations and endangering lives and property.
Chris Flowers, the Chairperson of Eastern Produce Kenya's Board, highlighted the firm's position as one of Kenya’s largest tea-growing enterprises. He expressed concern that if the invasions persist, the consequences for security, governance, and investment would be severe.
Both the KTGA and EPK urged the government to take decisive measures to halt the criminal activities and safeguard the tea industry, which is a critical driver of Kenya's economy.
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