Arise Media 
BY RITA MUTHONI
The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has cautioned tea farmers against applying fertilizers during heavy rains.
KTDA National Chairman Enos Njeru said heavy rains could wash away applied fertilizers, resulting in significant losses.
“When one applies fertilizers during heavy rains, it is washed away, thus diminishing fertilizer effectiveness,” Njeru said.
Heavy rains can exacerbate the negative consequences of fertilizer use by promoting runoff carrying excess nutrients into nearby water bodies.
He noted that KTDA would withhold fertilizer distribution if the heavy rains persist.
Acknowledging challenges in the previous distribution, where 47 tonnes of fertilizers, equivalent to 956 bags faced delays, Njeru assured that the next shipment would not encounter similar setbacks.
Underlining their commitment, Njeru pledged to eliminate delays in fertilizer distribution.
Njeru appealed to the National Government to collaborate in reducing the prices of subsidized fertilizers, proposing a range of 1000 to 1500 Kenya Shillings per bag.
Expressing optimism, Njeru observed that the ongoing government reforms in the tea sector would contribute to increased profits.
As KTDA remains vigilant in its efforts to support tea farmers and enhance the efficiency of agricultural practices in the region, farmers were urged to heed the advisory and refrain from fertilizer use until weather conditions stabilize.
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