Meru Senator Kathuri Murungi has urged the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary to remove the 0.8 per cent tax on tea sales, saying the levy is cutting into farmers’ earnings. He also warned residents in Meru and other areas prone to landslides and quarry-related accidents to take precautions as the region prepares for El Niño rains.
Murungi called on the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) to exercise greater caution when supporting laws and policies governing the tea sector. He said decisions affecting the industry should safeguard farmers’ interests and ensure they receive fair returns from their produce.
The Senator urged residents in high-risk areas to remain alert, avoid dangerous locations and take early measures to protect lives and property as heavy rains are expected.