The Kenya Tea Growers Association (KTGA) has expressed grave concern over a wave of illegal land invasions and criminal activities targeting large-scale tea estates in Kenya. Speaking at an international media conference in Nairobi, KTGA Chairman Mr Silas Njibwakale highlighted the ongoing illegal occupation of the Sitoi Tea Estate in Nandi County, owned by Eastern Produce Kenya Limited (EPK), and recent incidents of unlawful tree harvesting at Sambret Estate in Kericho County.
Millions in Losses and Key Infrastructure Affected
At Sitoi Tea Estate, organised groups have reportedly been plucking tea crops, resulting in losses exceeding Kshs 30 million per month since August 2024. The invaders have also seized key assets, including the Sitoi Airstrip, which is critical for daily operations.
“The invasion of Sitoi Estate and illegal tea harvesting have had a devastating economic impact, crippling operations and threatening lives and property,” Mr Njibwakale said.
Calls for Government Action
The KTGA chairman criticised the lack of decisive action by security agencies and the national government, accusing them of enabling the invasions by failing to enforce court orders. Mr Njibwakale warned that continued inaction could have dire consequences for local security, the rule of law, and foreign investment.
He urged President William Ruto and relevant security agencies to intervene immediately, stating that further delays would harm both the local and national economy. Kenya’s tea and coffee industries are significant contributors to the economy, accounting for 23 per cent of exports and supporting over five million livelihoods.
Organised Crime and Political Cover Alleged
“In Nandi County, organised criminal gangs, seemingly operating with political backing, have taken over critical zones at EPK’s Sitoi Estate,” Mr Njibwakale revealed. “This includes the airstrip, which is essential for estate operations.”
Eastern Produce Kenya Board Chairperson Mr Chris Flowers added that EPK is the second-largest tea seller at the Mombasa Auction and an integral part of Kenya’s tea industry. In 2024, the company paid Kshs 3.75 billion to smallholder farmers in Nandi County, who rely heavily on EPK as a buyer for their green leaf.
Impact on Communities and the Economy
EPK employs over 8,000 workers at peak times, with an annual wage bill of Kshs 1.4 billion. The company also invests more than Kshs 2 billion annually in community projects and procurement from local contractors.
Mr Flowers emphasised that the ongoing invasions threaten not only EPK’s operations but also the livelihoods of over 14,000 smallholder farmers and numerous local businesses.
A Broader Economic Threat
The tea and coffee sectors remain pillars of Kenya’s economy, and any disruption poses risks to tax revenue and foreign exchange earnings. KTGA has called for immediate government intervention to safeguard the industries, protect investments, and restore order.
“This is not just an issue for tea estates but a threat to Kenya’s economic stability,” Mr Njibwakale concluded.
The KTGA’s appeal underscores the urgency of addressing these invasions to ensure the sustainability of Kenya’s tea industry and the livelihoods it supports.
