The Taraba State Government has finalized plans to invite private investors to partner with Mambilla Beverages Limited, producers of Highland Tea and Green Tea, to revamp the company’s operations. Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas announced this during a visit to the company’s facility in Kakara, Sardauna Local Government Area, stating that a team will soon be sent to Kenya to bring in experts and investors to modernize the company.
“We are determined to make Highland Tea Company competitive again. We will bring in experts and investors from Kenya to modernize the company, enabling it to meet the growing local demands for its tea and for export.” – Dr. Agbu Kefas
The move is aimed at addressing the challenges facing the company, including obsolete machines and equipment, encroachment by local farmers and herders, and the effects of global warming and climate change. The Governor also pledged to provide new tractors to the company to help address the issue of erosion threatening the plantation.
“The company is facing numerous challenges, including encroachment, obsolete machines, and the effects of climate change. We are committed to supporting the company to overcome these challenges.” – Dr. Agbu Kefas
Mr. Timothy Fanya, Managing Director of the company, highlighted the urgent need for dredging of the tea plantation affected by silting and emphasized the company’s plans to diversify into coffee and economic tree cultivation and processing.
“We appreciate the Governor’s support and commitment to reviving the company. We are eager to partner with investors to modernize our operations and expand our product line.” – Mr. Timothy Fanya
The Governor also inspected the Segem Dam and the 400 kilowatts twin turbines mini hydro electricity generation company, which supplies power to the tea factory, and planted a tree to commemorate the visit.