Nairobi, Kenya – (African Boulevard News) – The ongoing power struggle between President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy, William Ruto, has now spread its roots to the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA). A purge of the tea sector has been underway for some time now, resulting in the departure of several executives associated with the Kenyatta administration.
This latest development comes as President Kenyatta and Deputy President Ruto continue to vie for control and influence over various sectors of the Kenyan economy. The tea industry, which is a significant contributor to the country’s economy, has become the latest battleground in their political tug-of-war.
According to reports, President Kenyatta’s loyalists are attempting to assert their dominance within the KTDA. This power struggle has resulted in the departure of several key figures linked to the Ruto camp. The president’s supporters aim to consolidate their hold on the agency, ensuring that their interests take precedence over any others.
The tea sector has long been a vital source of income for many Kenyan farmers, with KTDA playing a crucial role in the production and marketing of tea in the country. However, the ongoing power struggle threatens to disrupt the sector’s stability, potentially impacting the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.
Industry experts and stakeholders have expressed concerns over the political interference in the tea sector, emphasizing the need for stability and continuity. They argue that any disruptions caused by the power struggle could have adverse effects on the industry, leading to a decline in tea exports and a loss of revenue for the country.
John Kibet, a tea farmer from Kericho, spoke out about the issue, stating, “We depend on the stability of the tea sector for our livelihoods. This political power struggle is jeopardizing our farms and the future of our families. We urge the government to prioritize the interests of the farmers and ensure that politics does not hinder the growth and development of the tea industry.”
The Ruto-Kenyatta tea war has also garnered attention internationally, with observers closely monitoring the situation. The outcome of this power struggle could have far-reaching implications for Kenya’s economy and its reputation as a leading tea exporter.
It remains to be seen how the power struggle within the KTDA will unfold and what impact it will have on the tea sector. As farmers and industry stakeholders anxiously await a resolution, the need for a stable and independent tea industry has become more critical than ever.
In the midst of this political battle, the fate of Kenya’s tea industry hangs in the balance. The future of the farmers and the country’s economy will depend on the ability of the government to prioritize the interests of the tea sector and ensure that political disputes do not hinder its growth and success.
