Residents of Matunwa village in Nyamira County have welcomed the decision by Nyansiongo tea factory to establish a new tea factory in the region.
Speaking on Monday during a 'baraza' to discuss the proposal and the impact it will have on the locals, they dismissed those claiming that the new factory will be detrimental to the environment in the region due to emission of dangerous gases.
They said the new factory will create employment for the youthful population in the region and improve the economy of the area by boosting small-scale businesses.
“The factory is a blessing to this region and was long overdue. We thank the management for thinking about our youths and businesses because I believe there will be an enormous change in terms of our living standards. We should not fear of the propaganda about environmental degradation,” said Mr Onducho Mwebi.
They, however, asked the management of Nyansiongo tea factory to compensate farmers whose land will be affected by the multi-million project.
“Since we have all agreed of cooperating with the proposal, it is then essential that those whose land will be affected are compensated in time,” said Mrs Clare Obare.
Factory chairman Christopher Nyakora reiterated that the region was suitable for establishment of a factory since it was leading in terms of tea production.
“As you know, some people wanted Nyansiongo to build this factory in Bosamaro but the truth is that Gesima region is a major producer of tea and that is why we stood with you,” he said.