By M, KNA
Tea farmers in Kirinyaga Central have welcomed the ongoing construction of the Kagumo–Kiamaina–Gathuthuma road, saying the project will address persistent challenges in transporting their produce to factories due to the road’s previously poor condition.
The nine-kilometre stretch is expected to significantly improve agricultural productivity by enhancing access to farms and collection centres. For years, farmers supplying Mununga Tea Factory have faced delays and occasional disruptions in tea collection, leading to losses as produce sometimes spoiled before reaching the factory.
Farmers say upgrading the road to bitumen standards will open up rural areas, boost agribusiness and improve access to markets for tea and other farm produce.
Joseph Kinyua, a local tea farmer, said the muddy and impassable sections of the road frequently delayed collection vehicles, forcing farmers to seek alternative routes at higher transport costs.
“The road has been muddy, causing delays in tea collection from the centres. Sometimes we are forced to carry tea baskets over long distances to access the factory,” Kinyua said.
He noted that farmers have been contributing through annual levies deducted from their bonuses to help maintain the road, but expressed optimism that tarmacking will provide a lasting solution and ease the financial burden.
Another farmer, Rueben Njuki, said the project had earlier stalled due to pending payments but has since resumed after the contractor returned to site. He expressed confidence that completion of the road will stabilize tea deliveries and improve incomes.
Dennis Murimi, a boda boda rider operating in Mutira Ward, described the road as a long-awaited development that will not only benefit tea farmers but also improve movement of people and goods within the area.
“The President launched the road, the contractor is back with full machinery and the works are ongoing,” Njuki said.
The project is being implemented by the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and aims to upgrade the road to bitumen standards to ensure all-weather accessibility.
Tea, coffee and dairy farmers, who form the backbone of Kirinyaga’s economy, are expected to benefit from reduced transport costs, faster movement of goods and improved access to regional markets once the project is complete.