Relief For Tea Farmers As KTDA Fertiliser Arrives

By Shadrack Mutai | Nairobi,

 

A ship carrying 30,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser has docked at the Port of Mombasa, bringing much-needed relief to thousands of tea farmers under the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA).

 

Speaking during the flagging off ceremony, KTDA Chairman Chege Kirundi said the consignment will be distributed to farmers beginning next week, ensuring they receive the crucial input as the short rains season continues.

 

Kirundi revealed that another 33,000 tonnes of fertiliser had already left China, with a further 36,000 tonnes expected to be dispatched within the next eight days.

 

However, he noted that the ongoing rains have slightly slowed down the offloading process at the port.

 

KTDA Board Member G.G. Kagombe, who was also present, explained that delays in the arrival of the fertiliser were caused by court cases filed by businessmen who lost in the tendering process.

 

Kagombe assured farmers that KTDA is exploring ways to mitigate such litigations in the future.

 

The fertiliser, an NPK 26-5-5 blend, will be sold to farmers at KSh 2,500 per 50kg bag, following government subsidisation of the input.

 

Kagombe emphasized that the fertiliser is of high quality, urging farmers to expect improved yields in the upcoming season