Nyansiongo tea farmers have reached a consensus, after months of intrigues and blame games regarding the site of tea factory construction.
The farmers were on Monday unanimous that the mother factory’s management refunds them deductions that had been made for the new factory construction, when they met at Nyansiongo town.
They said Nyansiongo tea factory had capacity to handle the number of farmers in the area hence no need to establish another plant.
“We have agreed to end our wrangles," said John Ondieki, a representatives from Bosamaro.
"It was our decision that the management refunds farmers since the mother plant can be able to handle the number of customers, consequently, we do not need a new plant.”
He said the management had been summoned to pay back the money they had collected for the mega project and suggested the sum to be paid as part of February salary.
“We have written them letter about our decision and we hope they will owner it. Therefore, farmers should expect their dues by the end of February,” he added.
However, Nyansiongo factory vice chairperson Rachael Orina said they will have to wait for about three months for the management to authorise any payments.
“We are not against their decision and that is their right. However, the management has to sit down and decide when to pay,” she said.
Tea farmers from the region had gone to strike following disagreements over the site for a factory plant that had been suggested.