KTDA Holdings appoints Enos Njeru as National Chairman
By Clifford Akumu
The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has announced the appointment of Enos Njiru Njeru as the new national chairman following the resignation of David Muni Ichoro last week.
Until his appointment to the helm of the agency, Njeru served on the Board of KTDA since July 2021 representing farms from KTDA Zone Six which comprises factories in Embu County.
In a statement, the Board of the Kenya Tea Development Authority said that Njeru’s appointment as chairman takes effect Monday, July 17, 2023.
“The Board of the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA)Holdings Limited has today appointed Mr Enos Njiru Njeru as its national chairman effective Monday, July 17, 2023. This follows the resignation of Mr David Muni Ichoro as Chairman last week on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, through a letter which was received and accepted by the board,” KTDA said in a statement.
Njeru is a Certified Public Accountant with over 15 years of experience in finance management.
Mr Ichoho resigned following a two-day tea conference that was held in Kericho County last week. The conference was convened to discuss reforms in the tea sector and chaired by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Mr Njeru in his acceptance speech, said his chairmanship will be committed towards enhancing the welfare of the smallholder tea farmer, with a particular focus on the implementation of reforms on issues raised at the recently held tea conference.
“During the recent tea conference at Kericho, we held thought-provoking discussions with passionate stakeholders, who shared their insights and concerns. I want to assure you all that the issues raised will be carefully considered under my chairmanship,” said Njeru.
“I’m committed to translating the discussions into action, implementing the necessary reforms, and addressing the challenges faced by our tea farmers to better the returns of their hard work.”
Njeru’s appointment comes despite a court order that suspended the ouster of Mr Ichoro pending the determination of a case he has filed challenging his removal.
Njeru said he is committed to spearheading a comprehensive tea reforms agenda at the agency.
“In line with our commitment to progress, I will champion a comprehensive tea reforms agenda. Our industry is not immune to change, and we must adapt to remain competitive and sustainable. Embracing innovation, exploring new markets, and diversifying our products will be key to expanding the horizons of the tea sector. Together, we will chart a course that elevates the tea industry to new heights of prosperity,” said Njeru.
KTDA oversees over 600,000 smallholder tea farmers.