Through the Kenya Tea Growers Association (KTGA), the farmers are asking the government to merge all the bodies responsible for formulating production and marketing standards across the country.
This is even as farmers feel that such standards do not necessarily translate into profits and thus improved livelihoods.
Besides, according to the producers, most standards have been found to be an unnecessary overhead cost since the people who benefit most from them are other players in the value chain
“At the same time, we are asking for the introduction of Marks of Origin and Geographical Indications so that our teas are properly identified and positioned for better price outcomes,” said KTGA CEO Apollo Kiarii.
In addition, he supported a proposal for farmers to have a national tea trading finance bank to enable them access affordable loans.
In the 6th devolution conference in Kirinyaga,Governor Anne Waiguru said her government had struck a deal with a New York-based firm that will be directly sourcing the commodity from farmers, flying out up to four tonnes per week.
The direct sales are expected to fetch an average of Sh120 per kilogramme.