Arise Media 
BY RITA MUTHONI
Government Economic Advisor Moses Kuria has warned cooperative leaders, cautioning against the misappropriation of funds meant for tea farmers.
Speaking at Kathangariri Tea Factory in Embu County on Friday during the Farmers’ Annual General Meeting (AGM), Kuria stressed that those found guilty of financial mismanagement would face the full force of the law.
“No one will be spared if found misusing funds intended to benefit our hardworking farmers. Accountability is key to ensuring the success of the tea sector,” Kuria declared.
The AGM, which began at 9:00 a.m. under heavy security, was attended by different leaders, including Embu Deputy Governor Kinyua Mugo, National Chairman of the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) Enos Njeru, and Kathangariri Tea Factory Chairman.
Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who was also present, highlighted the stringent security measures implemented to safeguard the meeting.
This followed warnings from Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba about alleged plans to ferry goons to disrupt the event.
“Our intelligence team was well-prepared to identify and apprehend any individuals planning chaos. Farmers have a right to deliberate on matters affecting their welfare without interference,” Mukunji said.
The meeting proceeded without incident, providing farmers with a platform to discuss critical resolutions for their welfare.
The MP condemned any attempts to undermine such gatherings, describing them as unacceptable.
“Farmers’ meetings are a cornerstone of decision-making, and any form of interference is a violation of their rights,” he emphasized.
From the meeting, the MP noted that he received great insights from the farmers on the Tea (Amendment) Bill 2024 which is on the floor of the National Assembly seeking to liberalize the tea sector through direct sales.
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