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Forests destroyed by tea factories
DAILY NATION - LETTERS
Publication Date: 8/31/2004
The wanton destruction of forests by some tea factory operators in Mathioya, Othaya and Kangema divisions is very saddening.
Until recently, these factories used oil-based fuel for tea processing. But now they rely on wood. The unwise move will exacerbate environmental degradation in the area, hurt farmers, and in the long run, result in undesirable consequences for the factories themselves. Growth of tea leaves is high where there is a lot of rainfall and low when the rain fails.
I am yet to see or hear of any afforestation programme initiated by the tea factories. Destroying the few remaining forests that help sustain tea production in the area casts into doubts the competence of the factories' management.
The Government should move fast to restrain the wayward organisations bent on making profits in total disregard to the welfare of local communities.
The residents themselves should be more watchful, vocal and use any necessary means to safeguard their
environment.
S. KIMANI MWANGI, Mathioya.
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