Growers' lobby sounds alarm over invasions of large tea estates in Nandi

Kenya Tea Growers Association Chief Executive Apollo Kiarii.[File,Standard]

Stakeholders in the tea sector have expressed concern over the escalating illegal land invasions and criminal activities targeting large-scale tea estates in Nandi County.

The Kenya Tea Growers Association (KTGA) said the Sitoi Tea Estate owned by Eastern Produce Kenya Ltd (EPK) has suffered up to Sh30 million in monthly losses due to ongoing invasions by over 200 illegal settlers.

KTGA Chairman Silas Njibwakale, speaking during a media briefing in Nairobi yesterday condemned the invasion of Sitoi Estate and the illegal harvesting of trees at Sambret Estate in Kericho County. He called these actions “a threat to Kenya’s tea industry.”

The invaders, Njibwakale said, have been plucking tea crops, occupying prime land, and even taking control of vital infrastructure like the Sitoi Airstrip, which is crucial for the estate’s daily operations.

“These actions are nothing short of organised theft,” said Mr Njibwakale.

“The invaders are not only damaging the tea crops but have also disrupted the operations of one of Kenya’s largest tea producers, leading to devastating financial losses. We are particularly concerned by the lack of action from security agencies and the government, which has allowed these invasions to continue unchecked, including the blatant defiance of court orders.”

KTGA warned that if these illegal activities are not addressed, they could have dire consequences for local security, the rule of law, and investment in Kenya. Mr Njibwakale expressed fears that continued lawlessness would undermine investor confidence, discourage future investment, and result in substantial losses to both local and national economies, especially at a time when the government is focused on enhancing revenue generation.

“The national economy and the livelihoods of thousands are at risk,” he said, emphasising the importance of swift intervention by security agencies.

“We are not only concerned about the direct economic impact on tea estates but also the broader repercussions on tax revenues and foreign exchange earnings, both of which are essential to Kenya’s economic stability.”

Eastern Produce Kenya, one of the largest tea-growing companies in Kenya and a key player in the country’s tea industry, has been severely impacted by the ongoing invasions. The company is the second-largest tea seller at the Mombasa Auction and supports over 14,000 small-holder farmers in Nandi County, purchasing green leaf from local growers.

In 2024 alone, EPK paid out more than Sh3.75 billion to small-holder farmers and employed over 8,000 people, with an annual wage bill exceeding Sh1.4 billion.

EPK’s Board Chairperson Chris Flowers highlighted the company’s vital role in the local economy.

“EPK is a cornerstone of Nandi County’s economy, contributing more than Kshs 2 billion annually through community investments and procurement opportunities for local contractors and service providers,” Mr Flowers said.

“The illegal activities on our estate threaten not only our business but also the livelihoods of thousands of Kenyans who depend on us.”