The Kisii County Governor, James Ongwae has decried almost 100% drop in tea bonuses this year in which farmers received Sh.10 per kilogramme.
Speaking on Sunday during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Gusii stadium, Ongwae said drop globally is 25% and was last witnessed in 1990s.
Ongwae said the county government will meet the Kenya Tea Development Agency factory directors and stakeholders soon to resolve the current impasse on the tea bonuses.
The governor disclosed an on-going negotiation with coffee stakeholders to open a shop for Gusii brand in the United States of America.
“This is one of the moves by the county government to boost its exports abroad,” he said.
Ongwae lauded Kenyan athletes for excelling in the international competitions, including Eliud Kipchoge for breaking world record and Hellen Obiri for excelling in 5,000m race in Qatar.
Acting County Commissioner, Leonard Mgute assured education stakeholders of ample security during this year’s national examinations starting next week.
Mgute assured that there will be no exam leakages.
By Jane Naitore
