Mufindi Tea Factory Gets 3-Month Pay Deadline

Deputy Minister Gives DL Tea Factory Three-Month Ultimatum to Pay Farmers, Workers

April 6, 2025 — Mufindi, Iringa Region

Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Exaud Kigahe, has issued a three-month deadline to DL Company, the Kenyan firm operating the Mufindi Tea Factory, to clear all outstanding payments owed to tea farmers and factory workers. The directive mandates that all dues be settled between April and June 2025.

The announcement was made on Saturday, April 5, 2025, during a public meeting held outside the Mufindi Tea Factory. Minister Kigahe engaged directly with affected workers and farmers, many of whom have gone unpaid since the factory halted operations on January 28, 2025.

Livelihoods at Stake as Payments Stall

Farmers and employees voiced growing frustration over the prolonged delays in their wages and payments for tea supplies, noting that the situation has pushed many to the brink of economic hardship. Some workers have already resigned due to the financial strain.

"We’re struggling to survive. This is the third month without pay. Many have given up, but those of us still here are holding on with nothing but sheer will," said Hamza Kanyika, Chairperson of the Mufindi Tea Factory Workers Union. His emotional remarks reflected the distress shared by many present.

Farmers echoed similar grievances, citing years of tireless work with little to show for it. "We've cultivated tea for years, yet now we live only on hope. Our dues have not been paid in a long time," said Jesca Ngimba, one of the local smallholder farmers.

Government Steps In to Demand Accountability

Minister Kigahe affirmed the government's commitment to supporting industrial and agricultural growth, stressing that the current situation at the Mufindi Tea Factory was unacceptable. He ordered DL Company to resolve all outstanding payments within the set timeline.

The minister further directed the factory’s Managing Director, Jefferson Mofwi, to ensure that workers receive their rightful dues, including terminal benefits reportedly totaling TZS 1.6 billion. Tea farmers, who are collectively owed around TZS 124 million, must also be paid within the same three-month period.

Expressing concern over the factory’s future, Kigahe warned that failure to act could result in the collapse of tea cultivation in the area. “There’s genuine concern that this estate could return to bushland. This factory is vital—it’s what paid for my own education. We cannot allow it to fail,” he stated.

DL Management Issues Apology and Commits to Action

Responding to the grievances, Managing Director Jefferson Mofwi offered an apology to both the farmers and workers, citing reduced tea production this season as the primary reason for the delayed payments. He assured the gathering that efforts were underway to resolve the financial crisis and restore regular operations.

Broader Vision for Industrial Revival

Minister Kigahe reiterated that the government remains focused on revitalizing the country’s industrial sector. He mentioned plans to establish more BBT factories aimed at boosting production and expanding employment opportunities nationwide.

As tensions simmer in Mufindi, the government’s intervention offers a glimmer of hope to hundreds relying on the tea industry for survival. However, the real test lies ahead—whether DL Company will meet the three-month deadline or deepen the crisis for those already bearing the brunt.