Tea farmers supplying green leaves to the Toror Tea Factory in Ainamoi, Kericho County, have announced they will not resume harvesting until their grievances over bonuses are resolved.
The farmers are protesting the Ksh.25 bonus declared by the factory’s board of directors, insisting it is far below the Ksh.41 they believe is fair.
One of the farmers, Baigoi Bett, voiced their frustrations, saying the bonus based on average prices is unfair and could discourage many farmers from continuing their work.
The farmers have been on strike for two weeks, refusing to pluck their tea until they receive a clear report and assurance that their demands will be met.
They are also planning a meeting to strategize on the way forward. According to Bett, the farmers are determined to continue their boycott until all their concerns are addressed.
Beyond the Toror Tea Factory, tea farmers across Kericho and Bomet counties have raised concerns over the lack of transparency in how bonuses are allocated, with allegations that some factories are receiving more favorable rates than others.
These grievances recently led to demonstrations at Mogogosiek Tea Factory, where tensions escalated, resulting in the death of one protester and serious injuries to two others.
