Governor orders probe into tampering of weighing machines

Kericho Governor Paul Chepkwony has ordered the Weights and Measures Department in Kericho County to conduct a probe into allegations that some individuals have tampered with weighing machines so as to swindle farmers.

The governor disclosed he has received petitions from farmers and a number of people of good will to order a probe into the practice, which he said had been going on for a long time.

Chepkwony has directed county executive member in-charge of trade, Philip Mason, to move with speed and ensure those stealing from the tea and dairy farmers among others are arrested and will  face the full force of the law.

The governor further added that the county is dedicated to ensuring that consumers receive the full weight, volume, count and other measurement of commodities for which they supply to the county.

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has recommended to the department of Weights and Measures upgrade the weighing of green tea leaves by using digital weighing machines to safeguard against weight loss.

“Agricultural production in Kericho is very important, it is a source of income to farmers of this county, tampering of the machines leads to low amounts earned by our suppliers, this gives them low income” said the governor.

Speaking at Kericho Town, the governor assured farmers that he is putting in place proper measures to ensure all employees of the county deliver appropriate services without any inaccuracies.

He further gave stern warning to those involved in tampering with the weighing machines saying they will be sacked and forced to pay all the loss incurred by farmers during the supply of their farm products to the county.

The governor also reiterated that his county is set to benefit from the International Tissue Research Center that will be  constructed in the area.

Chepkwony also promised farmers better farm-gate prices.