The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has suspended all staff travel, off-site meetings, and training activities across its subsidiaries in a sweeping cost-cutting directive aimed at tightening governance and responding to mounting pressure over reduced farmer bonuses.
In an internal memo, dated October 21, 2025, the agency circulated to all general managers, department heads, and subsidiary leaders, outlining immediate restrictions on operational spending. KTDA management said the move aligns with its broader strategy to reinforce compliance, curb excesses, and address concerns raised by tea farmers over declining earnings.
“All staff travel is suspended until further notice. No travel, domestic or international, for any business-related purpose shall occur without explicit prior written authorisation from the Holdings Board through the Group CEO,” the memo stated.
The directive also bans external meetings, whether held in hotels or within tea factory premises unless formally approved in writing by the Holdings Board upon recommendation by the Group CEO.
Likewise, all training sessions, whether planned or ongoing, have been put on hold unless specifically cleared by the Group CEO.
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KTDA emphasized that the restrictions apply to all employees across all levels and departments, with exceptions granted only to roles deemed operationally critical and pre-approved in writing. Department and subsidiary heads have been instructed to communicate the directive immediately and ensure strict compliance.
The decision comes amid growing discontent among smallholder tea farmers, many of whom have expressed frustration over reduced bonus payouts this season. KTDA has faced scrutiny over its operational costs and governance practices, prompting calls for greater transparency and accountability in how farmer proceeds are managed.
By Masaki Enock
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