Nyakerinya tea farmers group from Borabu area will have to respond to queries raised by a section of members before they are allowed to conduct businesses with Kipkebe Tea Factory, a senior official has said.
Addressing angry farmers at the factory on Tuesday during an impromptu meeting to solve the issue, acting director Peter Morris said the concerns of members were genuine and officials needed to address emerging issues urgently.
According to the farmers, officials deducted irregular fee that was allegedly needed by the factory to renew their permitting letter contrary to the requirements of the company.
“I have heard your concerns and they are very legitimate. Our company has never asked any group to renew the letter of permission to transact businesses with us. That is unlawful and you have to solve it with the officials,” he said.
“I have spoken with the group chairman, Mr Alex Onsongo, and communicated the position of the company. They will remain suspended till the row is solved amicably,” he added.
According to the farmers, each was deducted Sh3 per kg that would be used to renew the letter of permission.
However, Mr Onsongo denied the claims and insisted that the money was to be used in fuelling the vehicle besides paying the group’s driver.
“It is true that deductions were made but they will be used in paying the group’s driver besides fuelling our transportation vehicle,” he said.