New row over tea picking machines

A fresh row has erupted between multi-national tea companies and a trade union over introduction of tea plucking machines.

Kenya Plantation and Agricultural Workers Union (KPAWU) has issued a notice to go on strike next month unless tea companies withdraw the use of the machines.

“We have written to management of the multi-national tea companies for a joint meeting early next month on how to resolve the matter,” said Mr Joshua Oyuga, KPAWU national treasurer.

He said the meeting to be held at a Nakuru hotel will address the effects of tea plucking machines, including loss of employment.

“We shall have no option but to call another strike if the companies snub the meeting,” warned Mr Oyuga.

More than 10,000 unionisable workers went on strike last year to protest against introduction of the machines.

The strike was, however, called off to pave way for negotiation with the companies which have moved to court to challenge the matter.

Mr Oyuga claimed more than 2,000 workers have been sacked following the introduction of the machines in Kericho, Nandi and Sotik districts.

Some KPAWU officials suspended for leading the strike have not been reinstated by their employers.

The 33 shop stewards in Kericho and Sotik are still serving suspension for leading the strike last year.

The introduction of the tea plucking machines affected tea factories in Nandi-Hills, including Kapchorwa and Tindiret, where more than 1,500 workers went on strike last year to demand for their removal.

The companies termed the plucking machines as economical saying they had cut down production costs.

Some farmers have also supported introduction of the tea plucking machines saying the country cannot afford to be left behind in embracing modern technology.

Most tea companies are operating below capacity due to shortage of green leaf occasioned by the prolonged drought.

The dry spell could lead to loss of employment as companies move to cut costs.