The Mountain Journal
editor@themountainjournal.co.ke
Mombasa tea auction has auctioned 11,387,803 kgs from five neighbouring countries with Kenya presenting 9,402,749 kg sourced from KTDA factories and independent producers.
In the auction market, the KTDA factories earned Sh 1,380,167,589 from the sale of 5,169, 167 kgs as Ngere factory growers fetched Sh 64,988,976 after the sale of 208,298 kgs, Njunu tea factory got Sh 29,908,402 for 96,554kgs.
The report indicates that Mununga,Gathuthi,Rukuriri,Imenti,Kathangariri, Kimunye, and Kiegoi factories achieved the best prices for their produce bought between Sh385 and Sh319 per kilogramme.
Rukuriri factory in Embu fetched Sh46,286,704 from the sale of 141,118kgs.
The produce was bought by 53 dealers with Global tea bought 20,500kgs,Chai Trading 18,160 kgs, Mombasa Coffee 11,000 kgs, Devchand Keshavj 9,680 kgs.
The report further states that Tiger Exports bought 20 kgs and ranked the least buyer.
Ngere tea factory James Githinji said his farmers have been working to ensure they produce quality green leaves from all the catchment areas.
“The directors work closely with farmers to ensure the produce attracts the local and international market,” said Githinji.
Njunu tea factory vice chairman Maina Gathua said in the auction the factory attained 10 the position owing to the farmers dedication towards production of quality tea.
“The directors at Njunu have been producing quality tea thus better returns,” said Mr Maina.
KTDA Holding Chairman Chege Kirundi said the farmers are encouraged to continue producing quality grades to attract the growing market.
“KTDA will work with other players to source for the expanded tea market, a trend that will provide impressive payments to the small scale growers,” said Kirundi.
